What is Prostate Cancer and Why Should You Get Tested?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting men in the UK. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It plays a key role in producing the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate start to grow uncontrollably.

In this blog, we’ll break down what prostate cancer is, the risk factors associated with it, the importance of testing, and how early detection can save lives.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland and typically grows slowly. However, in some cases, it can spread quickly to other parts of the body, such as the bones or lymph nodes. Symptoms often do not appear in the early stages, which is why prostate cancer can go undetected for a long time.

Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

There are several factors that may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer:

1. Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, particularly in men over 50. In the UK, it is most commonly diagnosed in men aged 65 and above.

2. Family History: Men with close family members who have had prostate cancer are at an increased risk. This suggests a hereditary component to the disease.

3. Ethnicity: Prostate cancer is more common in Black men compared to other ethnic groups. The reasons for this are not fully understood, but it’s thought that genetic and environmental factors play a role.

4. Lifestyle: Diets high in red meat and dairy, as well as lack of exercise, may contribute to the development of prostate cancer. However, research is ongoing to determine the exact role lifestyle factors play in the risk of prostate cancer.

   
   

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

In its early stages, prostate cancer often has no obvious symptoms. As the cancer grows, symptoms may begin to develop. Common signs include:

• Frequent urination (especially at night)

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination

• Weak or interrupted urine flow

• Pain or burning sensation during urination

• Blood in urine or semen

• Painful ejaculation

• Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis (if the cancer has spread)

  
  

However, many of these symptoms can be related to conditions other than cancer, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), so they don’t automatically mean you have prostate cancer.

Why Should You Get a Test for Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages, as symptoms might not appear until the disease has advanced. This makes testing an essential tool for identifying prostate cancer before it causes serious harm.

Here’s why getting tested is important:

1. Early Detection Saves Lives

When prostate cancer is detected early, treatment is much more likely to be successful. Early-stage prostate cancer can often be managed with surgery, radiation therapy, or active surveillance, leading to better outcomes and a higher chance of long-term survival.

The survival rate for prostate cancer is high, especially if diagnosed early. According to the NHS, more than 90% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer survive for at least 5 years after diagnosis.

2. The PSA Test

In the UK, the most common screening test for prostate cancer is the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test. This blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels of PSA can indicate the presence of prostate cancer, although other factors (such as an enlarged prostate or prostatitis) can also cause raised PSA levels.

The PSA test is not perfect—some men with high PSA levels don’t have cancer, and some with low levels may still have it. However, it remains a key tool in identifying men who might need further investigation, such as a biopsy.

3. Genetic Testing

In some cases, genetic testing may be offered to those with a family history of prostate cancer or other cancers. This can help identify inherited mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which can increase the risk of prostate cancer. Men with these mutations might need more regular screening or preventive treatments.

4. Targeted Treatment and Personalised Care

If prostate cancer is detected early, doctors can tailor treatments based on the specific type and stage of the cancer. Advances in personalised medicine mean that treatments can be more effective and have fewer side effects. This approach is more likely to improve the quality of life and survival rates for men with prostate cancer.

Who Should Get Tested?

Currently, in the UK, routine screening for prostate cancer is not offered to all men, but certain groups are at higher risk and should discuss testing with their GP. These groups include:

• Men aged 50 and over: Men over 50 are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. If you are over 50 and concerned about your risk, it’s a good idea to speak with your GP about screening options.

• Men with a family history of prostate cancer: If your father or brother has had prostate cancer, you may be at an increased risk. You should consider discussing screening with your GP earlier than the general recommendation (around age 50).

• Men of Black African or Caribbean descent: This group has a higher risk of prostate cancer. Black men should consider starting regular screening from the age of 45.

  
  

Even if you don't fall into these higher-risk groups, it's still important to be aware of the symptoms of prostate cancer and discuss any concerns with your GP.

How Can You Get Tested for Prostate Cancer in the UK?

In the UK, the NHS doesn’t offer routine prostate cancer screening to all men, but if you are at higher risk or experiencing symptoms, you can discuss testing options with your GP or Aceso Health inclduing:

• PSA blood test: This is the first step in screening and helps assess the likelihood of prostate cancer.

• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A doctor may also perform a physical examination to feel the prostate for abnormalities.

• Biopsy: If PSA levels are high or there are other concerns, a biopsy might be recommended to confirm the presence of cancer.

  
  

While PSA testing is not always conclusive, it can help doctors make decisions about further diagnostic tests and treatments.

How can Aceso Health help you?

Prostate cancer is a serious health condition, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, the chances of successful management are high.

If you’re a man aged 50 or over who wants peace of mind, or if you’re in a higher-risk group, Aceso Health can offer you our PSA Advanced test. Regular check-ups, awareness of symptoms, and understanding your risk can help you make informed decisions about your health and ensure that any potential problems are caught early, when they’re most treatable.

Remember, while prostate cancer may be common, it is also highly treatable when detected early—so don’t delay in seeking medical advice from us if you’re concerned about your prostate health.