Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men in the United Kingdom, with approximately 1 in 8 men receiving a diagnosis during their lifetime. Yet despite these statistics, many men remain unsure about their risk and what they can do to protect their health. This is where the PSA test becomes crucial — a simple, non-invasive blood test that can detect early signs of prostate problems and potentially save lives.
At Lambert Medical Practice in Surbiton, we believe in empowering men with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their health. Whether you're approaching 50, have a family history of prostate cancer, or simply want to understand your prostate health, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about PSA testing.
What is a PSA Test?
A PSA test is a simple blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by the prostate gland. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that sits beneath the bladder and plays an important role in male reproductive health. When cells in the prostate are damaged, die, or multiply abnormally, they release more PSA into the bloodstream, which is why elevated PSA levels can indicate a problem.
The beauty of the PSA test lies in its simplicity. It's a routine blood draw that takes just minutes — no invasive procedures, no discomfort. Your blood is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, and results are typically available within 24-48 hours. Your doctor will review these results in context with your age, medical history, and other factors.
It's important to understand that the PSA test is a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool. An elevated PSA level doesn't automatically mean you have cancer — it simply indicates that further investigation may be needed.
Who Should Get Tested?
Current guidelines from major health organisations recommend different screening approaches based on age and risk factors:
- Men aged 50 and over: Should discuss PSA screening with their doctor and decide whether testing is appropriate for them.
- Black men aged 45 and over: Should begin PSA screening discussions earlier due to higher incidence and earlier onset of prostate cancer.
- Men with a family history: Those with a father, brother, or son diagnosed with prostate cancer should consider screening from age 45.
- Men with symptoms: Any man experiencing urinary difficulties, erectile dysfunction, or pain should consult their doctor regardless of age.
The decision to screen is personal, and we recommend discussing your individual risk factors with one of our doctors before deciding whether a PSA test is right for you.
Understanding PSA Levels by Age
PSA levels naturally increase slightly with age, which is why reference ranges vary. Here's a breakdown of typical PSA ranges by age group:
| Age Group | PSA Reference Range (ng/mL) |
|---|---|
| 40-49 years | 0-2.5 ng/mL |
| 50-59 years | 0-3.5 ng/mL |
| 60-69 years | 0-4.5 ng/mL |
| 70+ years | 0-6.5 ng/mL |
Note: These are general reference ranges. Individual laboratories may use slightly different cut-off values, and your doctor will interpret your results based on your specific circumstances.
What Do Elevated PSA Levels Mean?
One of the most important things to understand about the PSA test is that elevated levels don't automatically indicate cancer. There are several reasons why your PSA might be higher than expected:
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that affects many men as they age. An enlarged prostate naturally produces more PSA, which can lead to elevated levels. BPH causes urinary symptoms like frequent urination, weak stream, and incomplete emptying, but is not cancer.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis is inflammation or infection of the prostate gland, which can significantly raise PSA levels. This is typically temporary and may resolve with antibiotics if caused by infection, or anti-inflammatory treatment if caused by inflammation.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Even a simple urinary tract infection can elevate PSA levels. If you have an active infection, your doctor may recommend retesting after the infection has been treated.
Recent Prostate Activity
Recent activities affecting the prostate — such as cycling, recent ejaculation, or certain medical procedures — can temporarily raise PSA levels. For this reason, doctors often recommend waiting a few days before PSA testing and avoiding these activities beforehand.
Prostate Cancer
Yes, elevated PSA can indicate prostate cancer, but this is just one possibility among several. This is why context and professional interpretation are essential.
What Happens After an Elevated Result?
If your PSA test comes back elevated, it's important to remain calm. Your GP will review your result in context and may recommend one or more of the following:
1. Repeat Testing
Often, your doctor will recommend a repeat PSA test to confirm the result. This helps rule out temporary elevation from infection, inflammation, or recent activity. The repeat test is usually scheduled a few weeks later.
2. PSA Velocity Monitoring
Your doctor may track how quickly your PSA levels are rising over time. A rapid increase is more concerning than a stable elevated level, and helps guide further action.
3. Additional Screening
Depending on your PSA level and other risk factors, your doctor may recommend a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) to physically assess your prostate.
4. Specialist Referral
If PSA levels remain elevated after repeat testing or increase significantly, your GP may refer you to a urologist for further investigation, which might include an ultrasound or biopsy.
The key is to work with your doctor to understand your individual situation. Most elevated PSA levels do not indicate cancer, but they do warrant investigation to determine the cause.
Why Private PSA Testing Matters
While NHS prostate screening is available, private PSA testing offers several distinct advantages that make it an attractive option for many men:
No Waiting Lists
One of the most significant benefits of private testing is speed. Instead of waiting weeks for an NHS appointment, you can get tested within days. This is particularly important if you've been waiting for NHS testing or want proactive screening.
Same-Day or Next-Day Results
Our private laboratory partners provide fast turnaround times. Many results are available within 24 hours, with some available the same day. This means you can get answers quickly and move forward with your health plan.
Comprehensive GP Consultation Included
When you book a PSA test at Lambert Medical Practice, your appointment includes a consultation with one of our experienced GPs. We'll discuss your health history, explain what the test measures, answer your questions, and review your results in detail. This personalised approach ensures you fully understand your prostate health.
Continuity of Care
You're not just getting a test; you're getting ongoing medical support from a doctor who knows your health profile. If your results require follow-up, we're here to guide you through the next steps.
Affordable and Transparent Pricing
At just £65.98, our PSA test is competitively priced and includes the full consultation. You'll know exactly what you're paying upfront with no hidden costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About PSA Testing
Yes, there are a few steps that can help ensure accurate results. We recommend avoiding intense cycling, ejaculation, or medical procedures affecting the prostate for 48 hours before your test. You should eat and drink normally — fasting is not required for a PSA test. If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, let us know, as you may want to treat this first before testing.
If your PSA is normal and you're at average risk, annual screening is reasonable. Some men with very low PSA levels (under 1 ng/mL) may only need testing every 2-3 years. The frequency depends on your age, risk factors, and your doctor's recommendations. We'll discuss the best testing schedule for you during your consultation.
The PSA test is a useful screening tool, but it's not definitive. Studies show that PSA testing can detect many cancers early, improving treatment outcomes. However, it can also produce false positives (elevated levels without cancer) and false negatives (normal levels with cancer present). This is why it's best used as part of a broader approach to prostate health, combined with clinical assessment and discussion with your doctor.
A slightly elevated PSA without symptoms is relatively common and doesn't necessarily indicate anything serious. Your doctor will review your result in context with your age, risk factors, and medical history. The most likely next step is to repeat the test a few weeks later to see if the elevation is persistent. Many men find that their PSA returns to normal on repeat testing, suggesting temporary elevation from benign causes.
Yes, some medications can affect PSA levels. Finasteride (Propecia) and dutasteride (Avodart), used to treat enlarged prostate, can actually lower PSA levels. Other medications may have indirect effects through urinary or infectious side effects. During your consultation, tell us about all medications you're taking so we can interpret your results accurately.
A PSA test is a blood test measuring a protein level. A Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) involves a doctor manually assessing your prostate's size, shape, and consistency through the rectal wall. Both tests provide different information about prostate health. Whilst the PSA test is what we primarily offer at Lambert Medical Practice, your doctor may recommend a DRE based on your individual circumstances and will discuss this with you.
Take Control of Your Prostate Health Today
Prostate cancer is highly treatable when caught early, and the PSA test is a simple, affordable way to stay ahead of your health. At Lambert Medical Practice in Surbiton, we make prostate screening accessible, quick, and supported by expert medical advice.
Whether you're due for your first PSA test or continuing your regular screening routine, our team is here to help you make informed decisions about your health.
Book Your PSA Test from £65.98Conclusion
The PSA test is a powerful tool for early detection of prostate problems, offering peace of mind and potentially life-saving early intervention. At 1 in 8 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK, understanding your risk and taking action is an important part of responsible health management.
You don't need to navigate this alone. Lambert Medical Practice offers expert, compassionate care from experienced doctors who understand men's health. With same-day appointments, fast results, and comprehensive consultation included in our £65.98 PSA test, taking the first step towards better prostate health has never been easier.
Call us today on 0208 133 5694 or book your appointment online. Your health is worth the investment.