Prostate Cancer & PSA Testing
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Prostate cancer is common in men, especially over 50. Every year, around 50,000 men in the UK are diagnosed, and 12,000 die from it. However, over 75% survive for at least 10 years.
PSA Test – What Is It?
The PSA test is a blood test that checks for a protein made by the prostate. High levels don’t always mean cancer—other conditions like infections or an enlarged prostate can also raise PSA. The test can also miss some cancers or find slow-growing ones that may never cause harm.
Who’s at Higher Risk?
- Men aged 50+
- Those with a close relative (father or brother) who had prostate cancer
- Black men, who have double the risk
Should You Get Tested?
Talk to our GPs about the pros and cons before deciding. Early detection can help, but the test isn’t perfect and can lead to unnecessary treatments.
Learn more on the gov.uk website.