Summarised from an article by the Scottish Daily Mail: 

It’s been nearly four decades since breast cancer screening was introduced in the UK. Yet, shockingly, men still don’t have a national screening programme for prostate cancer—one of the most common and deadly cancers among UK men. Experts across the country are calling for a nationwide, risk-adapted screening programme—a move that could save thousands of lives by catching prostate cancer earlier, when it's far more treatable. 

Why don’t we already have screening?

At the moment, the first step for diagnosis is a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test, followed by MRI and biopsy—but only if a man has symptoms. If you're over 50 and asymptomatic, you must request a PSA test—and GPs often refuse. A 2024 study found over half of men struggle to access PSA tests, often due to concerns about false positives.

Historically, the PSA test has been seen as unreliable, as its levels can be affected by age, infections, or even cycling. But newer research challenges this view.

What’s changing?

Newer studies, like the European Randomised Study, show PSA screening reduces death risk by 20%. Experts like Professors Nick James, Chris Eden, and Mike Kirby argue it's time to act—especially with improved technology that reduces unnecessary biopsies and side effects like incontinence or erectile dysfunction.

What would screening look like?

Experts envision a programme that begins at age 45, especially targeting high-risk groups:

• Black men (1 in 4 risk)
• Those with a family history

Men would receive a baseline PSA test, followed by:

• MRI scans (quick and accurate)
• Regular follow-ups based on risk: every 1, 3, or 5 years

Short MRIs—called prostagrams—are quicker, cheaper, and almost as accurate as full MRIs, making them ideal for mass screening.

Dispelling the myths

• No need for a digital rectal exam (DRE): Modern protocols suggest it's invasive and unreliable.
• Screening won’t swamp the NHS: With planning, AI, and community clinics, the system can cope.
• Cost-effective: Early detection could save £200+ million a year in treatment costs.

What's next?

The UK National Screening Committee is reviewing the case for screening, but the TRANSFORM trial—involving hundreds of thousands of men—won’t conclude for years. Many experts believe we can't wait that long. As Professor Kirby puts it: “We must act now. Targeted screening will save lives—and prevent unnecessary suffering.”

Read the full article - https://www.pressreader.com/uk/scottish-daily-mail/20250408/282059102824745?srsltid=AfmBOor3wtSSlSiao8Hr24oVH22hkDIJCmPAMsU5cofW6Fyu_cRzQ-nM

Book your PSA test today for as little as £25 - mypsatests.org.uk