Over 50 years old

Ask our experts your questions about PSA Tests.

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over50
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Joined: Mon Nov 19, 2012 10:05 am
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by over50 on Mon Nov 19, 2012 10:07 am

Over 50 years old

If you're a man in your 50s, should you being getting screened for prostate cancer? Some of my work colleagues have been tested as part of a general annual health and fitness assessment. I can't really afford to take one of these assessments but wondered if I could just be tested for prostate cancer and if so whether like breast screening for women this is something that's available on the NHS?

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Philippa Aslet
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by Philippa Aslet on Mon Nov 19, 2012 11:31 am

Re: Over 50 years old

Good question.
At the moment nationionally indeed internationally there is a lack of consistant opion. There have been extensive studies looking at screening for prostate cancer with PSA testing and still some are for and some remain against.

A PSA blood test is available form your GP and is on the NHS. You should go and discuss your request with your GP. He should explain the pros and cons of PSA testing as the blood test is not in itself a diagnostic test. When you see your GP to request the test your GP should talk to you about any urianry symproms you may have and examine your prostate. If any abnormalities are found then you will be refered to your Local hospiatl to see a Urologist.

If a man falls into a high risk group such as those with a family history of prostate cancer or an afrocarribbean man then proactive PSA testing is sensible. For men who have bothersome urianry symptoms a PSA is part of the assesment. Men who request a PSA should be tested as long as they are counselled about the limitations of the test.The Charity Prostate Cancer UK, produce an excellant information sheet about PSA testing.

Go and see your GP and request the test.
Philippa Aslet
Senior Urology Specialist Nurse

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Mr Omer Karim
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by Mr Omer Karim on Mon Nov 19, 2012 5:02 pm

Re: Over 50 years old

Over50
Short answer to your question is........"yes"

Philippa raised the issue of race (afrocarribean) and family history which are certainly very important. To be honest, you will probably find that most young or "modern" urologists in their 40's and 50's have had their PSA done despite the party line from the NHS. I would certainly encourage you to get a PSA done if your in your 50's. It is great to get a low value which acts as a baseline for future reference.

The problem about waiting for symptoms to develop is that most urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate are not due to prostate cancer. If prostate cancer alone is causing urinary symptoms, then it usually pretty advanced locally.
Mr Omer Karim
Consultant Urologist

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