Prostate Cancer Screening Services at The Holly Hospital

FAQs

• Is there a prostate cancer screening programme for all men in the UK?

  No. The UK National Screening Committee has decided that screening all men would cause more harm than good, mainly because the PSA test isn't reliable enough and leads to high rates of overdiagnosis. A new targeted programme for men at very high genetic risk is being introduced instead.

• Can I get a PSA test if I'm not in a high-risk group?

  Yes. Any man who has thought about the pros and cons can ask their GP for a PSA blood test. Your GP will talk you through the potential benefits and risks so you can decide together.

• What is a BRCA2 gene change and why does it matter for screening?

  BRCA2 is a gene everyone has, which normally helps stop cells growing out of control. A change in this gene can increase your risk of prostate and other cancers, and it's the basis for the new targeted screening programme for men with a relevant family history.

• Do I still need a digital rectal examination?

  Not as a standalone screening test. It's no longer recommended on its own to screen for prostate cancer, though your doctor may still examine you as part of a wider assessment if you have symptoms.

• What happens if my PSA level is raised?

  A raised PSA doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer, since things like a urine infection or an enlarged prostate can also raise it. Your doctor may repeat the test, and if it's still raised, they may refer you to a urologist for further tests such as an MRI scan or biopsy.

• Are black men at higher risk of prostate cancer?

  Yes. Black men have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer, with some estimates suggesting as many as 1 in 4 will be affected, compared with around 1 in 8 men overall. This is reflected in the eligibility for a PSA test without symptoms, which includes black and Afro-Caribbean men from age 45.