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Ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), and height are all factors that influence a man's prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, according to results of a recent study. Experts observed 299 men-150 African American and 149 Caucasian, all of similar socioeconomic status-undergoing PSA testing. Overall, lower PSA levels correlated to higher BMI levels, especially among men under the age of 60. Race was also a significant factor; PSA levels were higher in African American men than Caucasians. In addition, percentage-free PSA levels varied according to height, but didn't appear to be associated with BMI or ethnicity. Findings support taking a closer look at high PSA levels among African American and obese men.

 

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Reuters Health. BMI, race, and height independently linked to PSA level. Available at: http://www.reutershealth.com/archive/2006/10/09/professional/links/20061009clin0. Accessed December 13, 2006.