Test / Diagnostic Procedure: Prostate Screening

The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. Its primary function is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. While the prostate tends to enlarge as men age, it can sometimes lead to health issues such as Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)/Benign prostate enlargement (BPE) or prostate cancer.

For most men early prostate cancer doesn't have any signs or symptoms. This is why it is important to know the risks. Symptoms may include urinary problems such as a poor urinary stream, going to the loo frequently, both day and night, visible blood in the urine or semen or discomfort or pain. These symptoms are, however, very common and very much more usually associated with benign rather than cancerous disease of the prostate.

If you are experiencing symptoms, the next step is to seek professional advice with a view to the first-line investigations of a digital rectal examination and a blood test for PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen).

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, 1 in 4 men is diagnosed with prostate cancer every year on average, with men from an ethnic minority at a higher risk (Prostate Cancer UK). Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Screening helps detect prostate cancer before symptoms develop, allowing for timely intervention and improved prognosis. However, it's essential to discuss the benefits and risks of screening with your healthcare consultant to make an informed decision based on your individual risk factors.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels may indicate various prostate conditions, including prostate cancer, but can also be elevated due to non-cancerous causes.

Digital Rectum Examination (DRE): This test examines your prostate gland. Your Men’s health consultant will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum through your anus to check for any abnormalities. Your consultant will check the size of your prostate and any abnormal bumps or changes on your prostate. By feeling for abnormalities such as nodules, asymmetry, or changes in size and texture of the prostate, the DRE serves as a valuable adjunct to other screening methods like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing.

Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mpMRI): This imaging technique uses a combination of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences to create detailed images of the prostate gland. Consultants will also do a DRE (digital rectum examination) so they can feel the prostate. There are also excellent studies with results on why using mpMRI is so beneficial but not always available. Our urologists will always use MRI before taking biopsies to get a more accurate diagnosis.

Please note, a consultation is required to determine which type of prostate screening is most appropriate. 

For more information on our prostate cancer screening, call us on 020 3653 2042 or fill in the form below.