PSA Testing

Overview

PSA Testing

Overview

What is a PSA test?

The PSA test is a blood test which can detect the early signs of prostate cancer. The test, which can be done at a GP surgery or at one of our testing events, measures the level of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) in your blood. PSA is made by the prostate gland. Some of it will leak into your blood, and the amount depends on your age and the health of your prostate. This test is specifically for men over the age of 40.

Raised PSA Levels

    The amount of PSA in your blood is measured in nanograms of PSA per millilitre of blood (ng/ml). PSA levels can range from 1ng/ml to hundreds of ng/ml.

    If you're aged 40-49, your PSA level is considered raised if it's 2.5ng/ml or higher.

    If you're aged 50–59, your PSA level is considered raised if it's 3.5ng/ml or higher.

    If you're aged 60–69, your PSA level is considered raised if it's 4.5ng/ml or higher.

    If you're aged 70 or over, your PSA level is considered raised if it's 6.5ng/ml or higher.

    PSA tests offered by GFCT are processed by The Doctors Laboratory. Laboratory results are measured to three digits whereas hospital results are measured to two digits.

Key PSA Info

  • About 15% of men who have prostate cancer do not have a raised PSA level.
  • Three out of four men with a raised PSA level don't have prostate cancer.
  • One out of four men with a raised PSA level will have cancer.
  • Two out of three men who have a biopsy don’t have cancer.
  • Biopsies in one in five men fail to spot prostate cancer.
A raised PSA level in your blood may show that you have a problem with your prostate. However, this may not be prostate cancer.

Other conditions, such as an enlarged prostate, prostatitis or a urinary infection, can also cause a raised PSA level.

Why have a PSA Test?

Knowledge Empowers

Prostate Cancer Awareness Booklet by PCaSO

We're delighted to announce that we now have a supply of a very useful booklet prepared by one of our partners, PCaSO, who are a prostate cancer sufferers support group covering Sussex, Hampshire and Dorset on the South Coast. Whilst there are a lot of very useful publications produced by the likes of PC UK, this is fairly unique in that it is written "by patients for patients". It has been reviewed by very experienced urologists and the foreword is from Chris Parker, a leading oncologist in the field of prostate cancer, based at the Royal Marsden in London. Please contact us on 01926 419959 or info@tgfct.org.uk to receive a free paper copy of this booklet, or view online using the link below.

Thank you very much to PCaSO for the use of this incredibly valuable booklet.

PSA Testing: An Informed Approach by Chris Booth

This approach by Chris Booth, retired urologist, discusses the controversies and benefits of PSA testing for prostate cancer screening, highlighting advances in UK clinical care and the need for improved screening practices.

Event Guidance Manual for Online Booking & Results

This manual guides organising prostate health awareness events, covering PSA testing logistics, booking, post-event activities, and support for volunteers, using The Doctors Laboratory or other labs.

How to Take a Home Testing Blood Test

Please watch this video, it will explain what is included in a home testing kit and how you take your blood test. If you order a few tests, you may have to fill more than one small vial.

Timing Factors in Favour of the Widening Use of HIFU as a Prostate Cancer Treatment

A summary, compiled jointly with Professor Hashim Ahmed of Imperial College.

Please have a read of our overview, and click here to download a PDF summary for more information.

What is HIFU treatment?

HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive prostate cancer treatment that uses targeted ultrasound waves to destroy cancer cells. This Focal Therapy minimises damage to surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of any potential side effects.

Why is it gaining traction?

HIFU is gaining traction as more younger men, concerned about impotence and incontinence risks, seek safer alternatives. A Consultant Radiologist noted, "The demand for Focal Therapy treatments will explode in the next 10 years" due to these growing concerns.

Support and Fundraising

If you believe you could assist in fundraising to expand these facilities to the Midlands and the North, matching the advanced services available in the South, please contact Graham Fulford at grahamfulford47@gmail.com or call 07831 156071.

We also have access to some powerful films on the subject which you can find here.