Prostate Screening near You in London

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Prostate Screening in London

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test for Men

After a certain age, usually around 50, men may start experiencing bladder discomfort due to an enlarged prostate gland. This occurs when the swollen prostate obstructs the urinary passage and begins to irritate the bladder. As a result, you may feel the frequent urge to urinate without producing a normal flow. If you notice this, you should see a doctor and get tested for prostate cancer.

Men at risk of prostate cancer often present with elevated levels of PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen). MD.co.uk connects you with the best private health clinics in London where you can undergo a private PSA test. These tests will either confirm an existing diagnosis or screen for prostate cancer in men without symptoms. A simple blood test at the clinic measures the level of PSA, with elevated levels possibly indicating the presence of cancer.

Man undergoing PSA test for prostate screening

Who Needs to Undergo a PSA Test?

The PSA, or Prostate-Specific Antigen test, is a blood test that screens for prostate cancer. You should consult a GP to determine the right time for a PSA test, as recommendations vary depending on individual risk factors. GPs typically recommend the following groups of men to undergo this test:

  • Men aged 50 and over: Men who are 50 and above should have routine prostate cancer checks due to the average risk of cancer.
  • Men aged 45 and over with high risk: Men with a first-degree relative, such as a son, brother, or father, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer at a young age (before 65), should undergo regular screening.
  • Men aged 40 and over with higher risk: If your family members were diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 65, you should consider screening from the age of 40.
  • Men with potential symptoms: If you experience symptoms such as blood in your urine, frequent urination (especially at night), or difficulty urinating, a PSA test is recommended.

You can access GP consultations at one of our partner clinics in London to understand the potential risks and benefits of a PSA test. There is a higher chance of over-diagnosis and false positives, so you must be aware of the implications before deciding to take a private PSA test in London.

What Can Affect Your PSA Level?

PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is released by healthy prostate cells, so detecting a certain amount in the blood is normal. However, the PSA level can increase due to several factors, including:

Urinary infection

A urinary infection can raise the PSA level. If detected, GPs at our partner clinics in London will provide effective treatment for 6 weeks before you undergo a PSA test.

Vigorous exercise

Refrain from vigorous exercise for 48 hours prior to a private PSA test.

Ejaculation

Avoid any sexual activity involving ejaculation for 48 hours before the PSA test.

Anal sex and prostate stimulation

Anal sex and prostate stimulation can temporarily raise PSA levels, so it is recommended to avoid these activities for about a week before the test.

Prostate biopsy

If you have had a biopsy within 6 weeks of a PSA test, your PSA level may be elevated.

Medication

Consult with a GP at our partner clinic in London to determine if your over-the-counter or prescription medications are affecting your PSA level.

Other surgeries and tests

If you have had surgery or tests on your prostate or bladder, wait 6 weeks before undergoing a PSA test..

Urinary catheters

If you use catheters for urination, wait 6 weeks before the PSA test.

Symptoms of Prostate-Specific Antigen

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Burning or painful ejaculation or urination
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Urine with traces of blood
  • The feeling of being unable to empty the bladder
  • A more frequent urge to urinate

If you experience any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult a GP who can recommend appropriate diagnostic methods and treatment.

What to Expect from the PSA Test

What to Expect from the Test

Before visiting the private health clinic, ensure you are well-hydrated, as this will make the procedure easier. Additionally:

  • Avoid ejaculation in the 48 hours prior to the test
  • Ensure there is no active urinary infection
  • Refrain from vigorous exercise in the 48 hours prior to the test
  • Do not have a prostate biopsy within 6 weeks of the test
  • Avoid having a rectal exam in the week prior to the test

During the appointment, a phlebotomist or nurse will collect a blood sample by inserting a needle into the inner arm near the elbow. This may feel slightly uncomfortable, like a scratch. Once you receive your results, you can arrange a follow-up appointment to discuss any findings.

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FAQs

You may experience weak urine flow with stop-start urination. You might also feel a more frequent urge to urinate, especially at night. These are potential symptoms that indicate a need for prostate checks.

The Prostate-Specific Antigen test is the best option for prostate screening. Often, this test is performed alongside a DRE to rule out the possibility of prostate cancer. Detecting high PSA levels in the blood can indicate prostate cancer or a less serious issue like prostatitis or prostatic hyperplasia.

Prostate cancer usually begins at the back of the gland and can be detected during a rectal exam. This might feel uncomfortable, particularly for men with haemorrhoids, but it is not painful. The test is also quite brief.

A GP can perform a prostate test to measure the PSA level in your blood. PSA is a protein secreted by the prostate gland, and some amount will dissolve in the blood depending on your prostate health and age.

Benign prostate hyperplasia is completely curable. Fortunately, several treatment options are available to address other prostate problems. All you need to do is consult with a GP at one of our partner clinics in London to address the issue.