PSA Test & Prostate Cancer Screening in Surbiton

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK — and one of the most treatable when caught early. A simple PSA blood test, reviewed by an experienced GP, could save your life. Same-day appointments available.

1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. It rarely causes symptoms until it is advanced — early testing is the only way to find it in time.

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Prostate Cancer — The Facts Every Man Should Know

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with around 52,000 new cases diagnosed every year. It is also the second most common cause of cancer death in men. Despite these statistics, prostate cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when detected at an early stage — 10-year survival rates exceed 98% for localised prostate cancer.

The key challenge is that early-stage prostate cancer typically causes no symptoms at all. By the time symptoms appear — such as urinary difficulties, bone pain, or unexplained weight loss — the cancer may have spread beyond the prostate, making treatment significantly harder. This is why proactive screening is so important.

Why Early Detection Matters

Stage 1–2: Nearly 100% 10-year survival rate with appropriate treatment
Stage 3–4: Survival rates drop significantly — earlier detection saves lives
No symptoms in most early-stage cases — you cannot rely on feeling unwell
PSA testing is the primary tool for early detection in men without symptoms

What Is the PSA Test?

The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a simple blood test that measures the level of a protein called PSA in your blood. PSA is produced by the prostate gland, and elevated levels can indicate:

  • Prostate cancer — the most serious cause of elevated PSA
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that is very common in older men
  • Prostatitis — inflammation or infection of the prostate
  • Temporary elevation — caused by vigorous exercise, sexual activity, or a urinary tract infection

A raised PSA does not automatically mean cancer — but it always warrants investigation. Conversely, a normal PSA does not completely rule out cancer. Your GP will interpret your result in the context of your age, symptoms, family history, and physical examination.

Understanding Your PSA Result

PSA levels naturally rise with age as the prostate grows. The table below shows typical reference ranges used to guide clinical decision-making:

Age Group Normal PSA Range Action if Elevated
40–49 years 0 – 2.5 ng/mL GP review; consider repeat test and referral
50–59 years 0 – 3.5 ng/mL GP review; repeat PSA and/or urology referral
60–69 years 0 – 4.5 ng/mL GP review; urology referral likely
70+ years 0 – 6.5 ng/mL GP review; referral based on clinical picture

Note: These are general guidance ranges. Your GP will interpret your result in the context of your individual circumstances, including symptoms, family history, ethnicity, and digital rectal examination findings.

Who Should Have a PSA Test?

Prostate Cancer UK and the NHS recommend that men consider a PSA test if they are:

  • Aged 50 or over
  • Aged 45 or over with a family history of prostate cancer (father or brother affected)
  • Black men aged 45 or over — Black men have a significantly higher risk of prostate cancer (1 in 4 lifetime risk)
  • Men of any age experiencing urinary symptoms — difficulty starting urination, weak stream, frequent urination especially at night, blood in urine or semen
Higher Risk Groups

Black men in the UK are twice as likely to develop prostate cancer as white men, and are often diagnosed at a younger age. If you are Black, we recommend discussing a PSA test from age 40. Similarly, if your father or brother has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, your risk is approximately double that of the general population.

Symptoms of Prostate Problems

It is crucial to understand that early prostate cancer usually has no symptoms. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already be at an advanced stage. However, when symptoms do occur with prostate problems (whether cancerous or not), they may include:

Urinary Symptoms

  • Difficulty starting or stopping urination
  • Weak or interrupted urine stream
  • Needing to urinate more frequently, especially at night (nocturia)
  • Feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied
  • Blood in the urine (haematuria)
  • Pain or burning during urination

Other Symptoms (may indicate advanced disease)

  • Blood in semen
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
  • Unexplained weight loss or fatigue

If you have any of these symptoms, please book an appointment as soon as possible. Do not wait — early assessment significantly improves outcomes.

Our Prostate Health Assessment

At Lambert Medical Practice, we offer a comprehensive approach to prostate health — not just a standalone PSA number:

PSA Blood Test

Measures total PSA. Quick, same-day blood draw. Results typically within 24 hours.

GP Consultation

Full review of your result, medical history, symptoms, and family history with an experienced GP.

Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

Optional physical examination of the prostate to assess size, shape, and texture. Performed by the GP if clinically indicated.

Referral if Needed

If your results warrant further investigation, we provide urgent referrals to urology specialists without delay.

How to Prepare for Your PSA Test

To ensure the most accurate result, please follow these guidelines before your PSA blood test:

  • Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 48 hours before the test
  • Avoid sexual activity or ejaculation for at least 48 hours before the test
  • Avoid digital rectal examination or prostate massage for at least one week before the test
  • Treat any active urinary tract infection before testing — wait at least 4 weeks after completing treatment
  • Inform your GP if you take finasteride (Proscar/Propecia) or dutasteride (Avodart) — these medications lower PSA and your result will need adjusting accordingly

You do not need to fast for a PSA test. The blood draw takes only a few minutes.

What Happens After Your Test

If Your PSA Is Normal

A normal PSA for your age is reassuring. Your GP will confirm the result and may recommend a repeat test in 1–2 years depending on your age and risk factors. A normal result does not mean you will never develop prostate cancer — regular monitoring is the key to early detection.

If Your PSA Is Slightly Elevated

Your GP will discuss whether a repeat PSA test is appropriate (a single elevated reading can sometimes be a transient rise), alongside any lifestyle factors or medications that might explain the elevation. Further investigation may include monitoring PSA over time or referral to urology.

If Your PSA Is Significantly Elevated

Your GP will arrange an urgent referral to a urology specialist under the NHS 2-week wait pathway, or privately if you prefer faster access. Further investigations typically include an MRI of the prostate and potentially a prostate biopsy. At every stage, your GP will guide you clearly through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About PSA Testing

A PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the level of Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, but can also be caused by a benign enlarged prostate (BPH), prostatitis, or recent physical activity. A GP reviews your result in the context of your age, symptoms, and risk factors.

Prostate Cancer UK recommends men aged 50 and over speak to their GP about a PSA test, and men aged 45 and over if they have a higher risk (father or brother with prostate cancer, or if they are Black). At Lambert Medical Practice, we recommend any man over 40 with symptoms or risk factors considers a PSA test as part of a comprehensive health assessment.

No. A raised PSA does not automatically mean prostate cancer. Many men have elevated PSA due to a benign enlarged prostate, prostate infection, recent vigorous exercise, or sexual activity. However, a raised PSA always warrants investigation. Your GP will assess your result alongside your age, symptoms, family history, and examination findings to determine if further testing is needed.

Not entirely. A normal PSA is reassuring but does not completely exclude prostate cancer. A small proportion of prostate cancers (particularly high-grade tumours) can present with a normal or only mildly elevated PSA. This is why your GP will consider your full clinical picture — not just the PSA result — and may recommend regular repeat testing as part of an ongoing screening programme.

Yes, NHS GPs can arrange a PSA test for men who request one. However, there is currently no national NHS prostate cancer screening programme (unlike cervical and breast cancer). NHS access can be limited by appointment availability and local guidelines. A private PSA test at Lambert Medical Practice gives you same-day access, rapid results, and an immediate GP consultation — without waiting weeks for an NHS appointment.

Your GP will discuss your result in detail. Depending on the level and your symptoms, they may recommend a repeat PSA test, a physical examination (DRE), an MRI of the prostate, or an urgent referral to a urology specialist. The GP will explain every step clearly and ensure you receive appropriate and timely follow-up care.

Book Your PSA Test

£65.98

GP consultation + PSA blood test

  • Same-day appointments available
  • Results within 24 hours
  • GP-reviewed result with clinical commentary
  • Referral arranged if needed
Book Online 0208 133 5694
Who Should Test?
  • Men aged 50+
  • Black men aged 45+
  • Family history of prostate cancer — test from 45
  • Any man with urinary symptoms

Opening Hours

Our Location

380 Ewell Road
Tolworth, Surrey
KT6 7BE

Near Tolworth station. Parking available nearby.

What Our Patients Say

Read reviews from patients who trust Lambert Medical Practice with their health.

Don't Wait — Get Your PSA Test Today

Prostate cancer caught early is highly treatable. A simple blood test could be the most important thing you do for your health this year. Same-day appointments available.