04/03/2026
Get Your Annual PSA Test
A Message from Sandie Wilson, Chair, Agent Orange Committee
Prostate health is a concern for most men. The annual tests consist of a physical exam, a urine stream check, and a blood test to check PSA levels. Current medical policy is to skip the PSA blood test after age 70 years. Most Vietnam veterans will not get a PSA because of age. You have the right to request a PSA from the VA.
If the PSA is elevated, a biopsy is recommended. If cancer is detected, a Gleason test is done. The Gleason score test indicates how aggressive the cancer will grow in the individual.
Most non-veterans over 70 will have a low Gleason score. This is not the case for Vietnam veterans. Most Vietnam veterans will be rated 8 or above. A low score is thought to mean the cancer is growing so slowly that something else will kill the individual before the prostate cancer takes its toll.
With the Gleason score in hand, the doctor presents choices for treatment. You, the patient, can help select the proper treatment. Most doctors will discuss life expectancy when using different treatments. The sooner the diagnosis is made, the better the outcome.
If you are over 70, and a Vietnam veteran, request a PSA test with your annual checkup. You are entitled to do so.
