Why Prostate Health Matters

In prostate cancer awareness month (September), we should be reminded of the commonest male cancer with over 52,000 cases diagnosed every year in the UK – that’s 144 men every single day. The good news? When caught early, prostate cancer is highly treatable, and survival rates are excellent. Early prostate cancer detection saves lives, which is why regular prostate health checks are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your future.

Simple, Discreet, Expert Screening at PRIME Health

At PRIME Health, we make prostate cancer screening simple, discreet, and reassuring. Our experienced private GPs are supported in-house with consultant Urologists to be well placed to provide expert assessment, often in a single visit. Our doctors will go through your detailed medical history and, if appropriate, perform a quick digital rectal examination (DRE), together with a blood test called a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. This gives an early indication of prostate health. Many men feel nervous about this step, but the examination only takes a few moments, is handled with complete professionalism and most patients are surprised by how easy it is. 

For further accuracy and risk stratification, we also offer the Stockholm3 prostate cancer test. This highly sensitive blood test combines genetic markers, protein levels, and clinical data to give an accurate risk score. This cutting edge test has been validated in more than 90,000 men with results published in more than 30 peer reviewed articles and provides clear, interpretable results (high risk, normal risk, low risk) with treatment recommendations. It’s far more precise than PSA alone and provides peace of mind for several years. This is an excellent choice for men with a family history of prostate cancer or those who want the most reliable prostate cancer blood screening without invasive procedures.

MRI Scans for Complete Certainty

For those seeking the most comprehensive option, we can arrange the gold standard in imaging – MRI scans. At PRIME, we offer both the time effective bi-parametric MRI scans for men aged over 50 and low risk, as well as the more advanced multi-parametric prostate MRI scans. The latter state-of-the-art imaging gives a detailed view of the prostate and can detect even the smallest changes before symptoms appear. It’s ideal for men at higher risk or anyone who wants complete certainty.

If any abnormalities are identified, PRIME health is able to offer in-house consultations with a Urologist, or swift referral to a private consultant of your choosing to investigate and further manage the issue. 

Above all, the most important step is starting the conversation and getting checked. Prostate cancer caught early is almost always treatable, and screening could be the simplest, most important thing you do for your health – and for the people who depend on you.

Book Your Prostate Health Check Today

At PRIME health, our expert team combines advanced technology with compassionate care to detect problems early and give you complete confidence in your prostate health.

Book your prostate health check at PRIME Health today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prostate Cancer Screening

1. What is the best test for prostate cancer?There isn’t one single “best” test – it depends on your risk factors and preferences. The most common starting point is the PSA blood test with a digital rectal exam. For a more advanced and accurate option, the Stockholm3 test combines genetic markers and clinical data for better risk assessment. If you want the most detailed evaluation, a multi-parametric prostate MRI offers the clearest imaging available.
2. At what age should men get screened for prostate cancer?
   
   Most men should consider prostate cancer screening from age 50, or earlier (from 40–45) if you have a family history of prostate cancer or are in a higher-risk group. At PRIME Health, we offer personalised advice based on your individual risk factors.
3. How accurate is the PSA test?
   
   The PSA test is a useful first step, but it’s not perfect – PSA levels can rise for reasons other than cancer. That’s why we often recommend combining PSA with a digital rectal exam, and for even greater accuracy, the Stockholm3 test or an MRI scan for detailed imaging
4. Is prostate cancer screening painful or embarrassing?Not at all. A PSA test is a simple blood test, and the digital rectal examination is quick and handled with professionalism and care. Most men are surprised by how easy and comfortable the process is at PRIME Health.

Written by

Dr. Cameron Nichol 

GP – PRIME Health