What?
Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer amongst men, claiming 12,000 lives in the UK annually.
1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer, and 1 in 4 black men.
Recently, a promising study called ‘Reimagine’ published in BMJ Oncology by University College London (Moore, 2023) has highlighted the potential of MRI scans as a screening tool for prostate cancer. These scans, unlike the traditional PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test, prove more reliable in detecting tumours.
The research suggests that soon, similar to how mammograms are available for women, men over 50 years may be invited for these 15-minute MRI scans. But what happens currently?
- What screening is done for prostate cancer? Currently, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test is used to screen for prostate cancer.
- What age should you start screening for prostate cancer? Men over 50 can discuss PSA testing with their GP. Those with higher risks might consider earlier at age 45 (e.g. black patients, family history of prostate cancer)
- What are the 5 early signs of prostate cancer?
- Frequent urination, especially at night.
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination.
- Weak or interrupted urine flow.
- Pain or burning during urination.
- Blood in the urine or semen.
- Can I get a prostate test on the NHS? Yes, men aged 50 and over can request a PSA test from their GP on the NHS, as above.
Why?
Prostate cancer’s silent progression means symptoms often appear late, making early detection paramount. The UK’s prostate cancer death rate is disturbingly high, twice as much as in countries like the US, Spain, or Italy. This disparity is largely attributed to the UK’s lack of routine screening.
The NHS currently uses the PSA test to detect prostate cancer, but it’s a double-edged sword. A high PSA level might indicate cancer but often results in unnecessary biopsies, causing potential harm.
Simultaneously, the PSA test misses several aggressive cancer cases. However, the ‘Reimagine’ trial showed that MRI scans overcame these challenges, making them a superior alternative. MRI scans detected cancers in individuals who had misleadingly low PSA scores, and they dramatically reduced the rate of overdiagnosis.
How (does it affect you)?
This innovation could be transformative for UK men. As healthcare consumers, the availability of MRI scans signifies a move towards more accurate early detection. If these scans become a part of a national screening programme, it might significantly reduce the UK’s prostate cancer death rate.
For patients looking to take action now:
- Stay informed: Ask your GP about MRI scans for prostate screening and express your interest.
- Take initiative: Men aged 50 or older can request a PSA test. Though it’s not perfect, it’s currently the standard detection method.
- Seek community initiatives: The study mentions a ‘scan in a van’ programme. These community visits might provide more accessible testing options.
A lesser-known tip for navigating the NHS efficiently is understanding your risk level. Black men, for instance, are at a higher risk. Being aware can guide when and how often you seek testing.
In conclusion, as advancements in MRI-based screening unfold, the NHS landscape will likely adapt, providing men with more reliable avenues for early detection. Knowing your options and risks is paramount in this evolving landscape.
As always, best wishes from myHSN!
