We believe that all men should have access to PSA testing in order to permit early diagnosis of prostate cancer, and that a national screening programme should be set up without delay.
In the past, some – including GPs – have been ambivalent about routine PSA testing because of a fear of unnecessary invasive biopsies and overtreatment.
However recent advances have changed things considerably, and we believe that regular PSA testing of anyone at risk, or with urological symptoms is advantageous for the following reasons:
- A high PSA reading is now usually followed up with a special MRI scan, avoiding unnecessary biopsies
- New biopsy techniques are being adopted which are better and safer than older techniques
- Many recent advances in treatment of prostate cancer mean that the prognosis following early detection is better than ever
Over 11,000 men die each year of prostate cancer in the UK, and the great majority of these are diagnosed late, and beyond the reach of many of the latest treatments which offer the possibility of cure. Our message to men and to clinicians – backed by the science – is to get tested.
Our role in this is both to urge men to ask for a test, and to make sure they can access a test once that decision is made. If you, or someone you know, is unsure about getting a PSA test, or is having trouble accessing a test, then we can help.
The Graham Fulford Charitable Trust offers local testing events as well as home testing kits, and we wholly support their work.
Public Testing Events
Unfortunately, it’s still often the case that GPs refuse routine PSA testing to their patients. Therefore many men choose to take the initiative and organize testing for themselves. This is something that we support. Fortunately the Graham Fulford trust runs regular testing events in South Warwickshire, and we support these by being on hand to offer information and support. For details of the next testing event, please see our events page.