Our Prostate Test measures Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) which is helpful in informing discussions with your GP about your risk of prostate cancer. Get your results in 2 to 4 days.

What’s tested

• Total Prostate Specific Antigen

The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test can be used for informing discussions with your doctor about your risk of prostate cancer. 

PSA is a protein produced mainly by cells in the prostate gland, and is widely used as an indicator of the possibility of prostate cancer. Depending on age and other factors it can be found in different concentrations in all males; however, in men whose levels are increased it may be a sign of infection of the prostate gland (prostatitis), prostate enlargement or prostate cancer.

Many things can alter the levels of PSA in your bloodstream, including exercise, cycling, masturbating, sexual activity and rectal examination. Therefore the result given must be interpreted alongside a full consultation, including rectal examination, with your doctor.  

Screening for prostate cancer using PSA levels is widely used in combination with physical examination. This test should be undertaken when requested by your doctor.

A negative PSA test does not rule out the possibility of prostate cancer, so you should speak to your doctor immediately if you have any relevant symptoms such as: back pain, erectile dysfunction, difficulty starting urinating, poor or intermittent urine flow, dribbling after urinating, urinating more at night, blood in your urine or semen and/or pain during urination or erection. A positive PSA test does not mean that you definitely do have prostate cancer, but you should seek an urgent medical review if you do receive a positive test, for a full assessment of your prostate and overall health.