Many people still believe that the initial test for prostate cancer is carried out by a digital rectal examination, BUT that is not always the case.

Nowadays a blood sample is taken and tested for prostate specific antigen - this is more commonly known as a PSA test.   

So what is PSA?

It is a protein produced by normal cells in the prostate so it is natural to have a certain level of PSA in your blood.  The amount rises as you get older because your prostate gets bigger as you get older.  It is also caused by prostate cancer cells.  

Just because you have a raised PSA level it doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer as other things can cause your levels to be high e.g enlarged prostate or prostatitus but it can tell your GP if you need further tests for prostate cancer.  They will also look at your risk of prostate cancer as well as your general health and lifestyle.

For more comprehensive information on PSA Testing have a look at Prostate Cancer UK's website https://prostatecanceruk.org.  It is full of lots of useful information and has contact details of their Specialist Nurses if you need to speak to someone.

How do I get a PSA Test?

Despite it being the UK's most common form of cancer there is currently no screening programme for it and you will not be invited for a PSA blood test by your GP although you can ask your GP for one if you’re over 50 or from 45 if you have a higher risk of prostate cancer.   Hopefully this will change.  Over 135,000 people have signed a petition demanding urgent action from the UK Government to prioritise a national screening programme for prostate cancer.

This is why PSA tests are being carried out by lots of other organisations who all know that EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES

PCaSO regularly hold events where you can register to get tested.  For a list of their current dates visit https://pcaso.org/psa-testing/#1674147680803-e1ce3859-97df.  They have very kindly organised an event in Petersfield on Saturday 13 September 2025 - the day before we March For Men with Kev on Sunday 14 September.

If you have a look at https://www.mypsatests.org.uk/Events/?s=* it gives you details of Events across the country where you can get a test carried out. They even provide home testing kits.