Men's Health Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that silence can lead to serious implications especially when it comes to prostate cancer. As clinical negligence solicitors, we often see the devastating impact of delayed diagnoses but early testing can make all the difference for your recovery.

Why prostate cancer deserves your attention

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with 1 in 8 men diagnosed in their lifetime. For black men, the risk is even higher, with 1 in 4 being diagnosed. Despite these numbers, many men delay seeking help, often due to embarrassment, fear, or simply not knowing what to look for.

But the truth is: early detection does save lives. And the first step is simple - having a conversation with your GP.

How Is Prostate Cancer Tested?

When you visit your GP, they will either perform an examination at the surgery or refer you for further testing. There are several ways to test for prostate cancer, these can include:

• Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

Your GP may perform a physical exam to feel for abnormalities in the prostate.

While it may feel uncomfortable, it is quick, painless, and a very simple diagnostic tool which can reveal important signs.

Some men may be embarrassed or find the test off putting, but it can be vital in reaching an early diagnosis and ensuring you go on to make the best recovery possible.

• PSA Blood Test

PSA stands for prostate specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate.

Most men have PSA in their blood, however a high PSA level can be indicative of prostate cancer, but it can also be raised by other conditions like infection or simply an enlarged prostate.

A PSA blood test is an initial test and the results will dictate whether further investigations are needed. MRI Scan

If PSA levels are high, you may be referred for a multiparametric MRI scan, which will take a more detailed picture of your prostate. This helps specialists decide whether a biopsy is needed or not.

This involves lying on a table that slides into an MRI machine. Prior to this a dye may be injected in your arm which will allow the radiographer to see your prostate more clearly.

• Biopsy

If needed, a small sample of prostate tissue is taken and tested for cancer cells. This is done by using a needle that is guided by ultrasound. Local anaesthesia is used to numb the area so you will not feel a thing, and sedation can also be administered if required.

Who Should Get Tested?

According to NHS guidelines and the Prostate Cancer Risk Management Programme (PCRMP):

• Any man aged 50 or over can request a PSA test from their GP, even without symptoms.

• Black men and those with a family history (father or brother with prostate cancer) should consider testing from age 45.

• If you’re experiencing symptoms like needing to urinate more, erectile dysfunction, or blood in urine or semen, speak to your GP immediately.

Other symptoms include a feeling that is bladder is not fully empty, straining whilst urinating and pains in hips and or back of legs

Cancer screening trial

A prostate cancer screening trial has been launched in the UK and the first letters have been sent out to invite men to join the study. The trial aims to look at ways to detect prostate cancer, in particular by seeing how rapid MRI scans can be combined with PSA to improve accuracy, as well as trialling spit tests versus current blood tests. The trial will span a two year period, and is a welcome commitment to improving men’s healthcare.

Make sure you are aware of prostate cancer

As clinical negligence specialists, we know that missed opportunities for early diagnosis can lead to tragic outcomes. But our goal isn’t just to represent those affected. It’s to prevent harm by raising awareness.

If more men come forward for testing, fewer families will face the heartbreak of late-stage diagnosis. Taking time for regular health screening can help the outcomes and reduce the risk of developing advanced prostate cancer.