Getting diagnosed with prostate cancer

You usually start by seeing your GP. They ask you about your general health and symptoms. They might examine your prostate gland and ask you to have a blood test. 

Your doctor then decides whether to refer you to a specialist.

Seeing your GP when you are worried about prostate cancer

Your GP will ask about your general health and any urinary symptoms you may have. They may also do some general tests and examine your prostate gland. 

Referral to a prostate cancer specialist

Your GP should arrange for you to see a prostate cancer specialist if you have symptoms that could be due to prostate cancer. 

Screening for prostate cancer

There ins't a national screening programme for prostate cancer because we don’t have a reliable enough test that can pick up prostate cancer at an early stage.

Tests for prostate cancer

You have a number of tests to check for prostate cancer. These may include a digital rectal examination, a PSA blood test, scans and a biopsy. 

Last reviewed: 
16 Mar 2022
Next review due: 
16 Mar 2025