PSA & Prostate Cancer screening - London Men's Clinic

PSA and Prostate Cancer screening

London Men's Clinic offer a full PSA and prostate cancer screening and assessment service, including clinical examination and testing.

PSA and prostate cancer screening

Here at London Men's Clinic we understand the importance of screening for malignant and benign prostate disease as a fundamental of men’s health. There is a significant crossover between both benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer with a number of conditions we manage, such as erectile dysfunction, testosterone therapy and post-prostatectomy incontinence.

We therefore offer a full prostate assessment service at London Men's Clinic, including clinical examination and PSA testing. We have excellent links with some of the best international experts in the field of prostate cancer treatment, should there be a need for onward management.

What is PSA?

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a protein which is released into the blood stream by the normal prostate gland cells.

What is the PSA test?

A blood test for PSA level is used to measures the amount of prostate specific antigen (PSA). PSA level increases slightly with age. Elevated PSA could be due to some problem in the prostate that could be benign or malignant.

Do I need a PSA test?

Men can request for a PSA test who are over 50. However, they need to understand the risks and benefits associated with the result outcomes. Black men and men with a family history of prostate cancer who are above the age of 45 are considered to be at higher risk of developing prostate cancer. They can discuss the test further and it could be organised at London Men's Clinic.

What does raised PSA mean?

PSA may be elevated due to enlarged prostate, inflammation in the prostate (prostatitis), urinary tract infection or due to prostate cancer. A small rise in the PSA could be there after prostate examination, ejaculation, or vigorous exercise.

What next if PSA is raised?

Prostate evaluation is not only based on PSA test. It also requires prostate examination by a urologist if PSA is elevated. Depending on the outcome of the elevated PSA and prostate examination (digital rectal examination), further tests could be organised which may include multiparametric MRI or prostate biopsy.

The team at London Men’s Clinic offer a multidisciplinary approach in the management of men presenting with raised PSA. If you’ve been diagnosed with raised PSA, your treatment team will discuss your options with you. It’s important to weigh the benefits of each treatment option against the possible risks and side effects.