Why the UK Needs Prostate Cancer Screening – Lessons from Recent BBC Coverage
A recent BBC News article (14 October 2025) shared the story of Grant Aldred, a 58-year-old man from Scarborough who believes he would have survived prostate cancer had a national screening programme been available when he was younger.
His story has reignited debate around prostate cancer screening, with charities and medical experts – including former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, a patron of Prostate Cancer Research – urging the UK government to introduce targeted PSA and MRI testing for men at higher risk.
The Hidden Burden of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the UK, with more than 52,000 new cases each year. It develops in the prostate gland, a small organ located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, responsible for producing seminal fluid.
In many cases, early prostate cancer causes no symptoms – making early detection essential. By the time urinary changes, pain, or fatigue occur, the disease may already have spread beyond the prostate.
What the BBC Story Highlighted
The BBC article emphasised several key issues:
- There is currently no national screening programme for prostate cancer in the UK.
- Men must request a PSA blood test from their GP, and many are refused.
- Family history and ethnicity play major roles in risk — yet many patients remain unaware.
- Several men only discovered their cancer after the disease had spread, when curative surgery was no longer possible.
The proposed £25 million targeted screening scheme would focus on men aged 49 to 69 with a family history of prostate cancer or of Black ethnicity – groups known to face significantly higher risk.
Understanding the PSA Test
The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a simple blood test that measures a protein produced by prostate cells. Elevated levels can indicate:
- Prostate cancer
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
- Prostatitis (inflammation or infection)
Although not perfect – high PSA doesn’t always mean cancer – it remains a vital early warning marker when interpreted alongside other investigations such as MRI scans and biopsies.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, PSA testing is available privately and discreetly, without the long waiting times often faced in public pathways.
The Science Behind Prostate Cancer Risk
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer:
| Risk Factor | Scientific Explanation |
| Age | Over 50, prostate cells divide more often, increasing mutation risk. |
| Family history | Having a father or brother with prostate cancer doubles your risk. |
| Ethnicity | Black men have a higher incidence and often more aggressive tumours. |
| Hormonal influence | Testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone) promote prostate cell growth. |
| Lifestyle | Obesity, smoking, and diets high in saturated fats increase oxidative stress and inflammation. |
Modern genomic research also shows that BRCA2 gene mutations, known for breast and ovarian cancer, can increase prostate cancer risk.
Why Screening Saves Lives
Catching prostate cancer before it spreads dramatically improves survival:
- Localised cancer (Stage I–II): nearly 100% five-year survival
- Advanced cancer (Stage IV): drops to below 50%
As Mr Aldred shared in the BBC article, “If I’d had a PSA at 50, I could have had my prostate out and lived a normal life.”
This tragic insight underscores why early, voluntary PSA testing can make a life-saving difference.
What Marylebone Diagnostic Centre Offers
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, our Prostate Health Profile provides comprehensive insight into prostate wellbeing through advanced laboratory testing.
Our diagnostic options include:
- PSA Total & Free Ratio – differentiates between benign enlargement and possible malignancy.
- Prostate Health Scan & Blood Profile – combines blood markers with ultrasound or MRI to assess prostate structure.
- Male Hormone & Fertility Panels – measure testosterone, LH, FSH, and SHBG for broader men’s health evaluation.
- Cancer Marker Screening – including PSA, CA 19-9, and CEA for a wider view of potential tumour activity.
All tests are performed under Marylebone High Standard protocols, ensuring accurate, confidential, and rapid results.
When Should You Get Tested?
You should consider a PSA blood test if:
- You are over 50, or over 45 with a family history.
- You are a Black man over 45.
- You have urinary symptoms (weak flow, frequent urination, especially at night).
- You experience pelvic discomfort or unexplained fatigue.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, you can book same-day appointments and receive results within 24 hours.
The Call for a National Screening Programme
The UK National Screening Committee is currently reconsidering its 2020 decision not to recommend routine screening.
Charities argue that modern imaging, improved PSA algorithms, and risk-stratified approaches now make national screening cost-effective and lifesaving.
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre supports this movement by providing private access to PSA testing and prostate health evaluation, ensuring men are not left waiting until it’s too late.
Take Action – Don’t Wait for Symptoms
Early testing saves lives. Whether you have a family history or simply want peace of mind, proactive health checks matter.
- Book your Prostate Health Profile today at marylebonediagnosticcentre.com.
- Speak with our team about same-day PSA testing and hormone evaluation.
- Take control of your health – prevention begins with awareness.
Read More
- BBC News – Prostate cancer screening debate (Oct 2025)
- NHS – PSA test for prostate cancer
- Prostate Cancer UK – PSA and MRI screening guidance
- Cancer Research UK – Prostate cancer statistics
- National Screening Committee – Prostate cancer screening policy
- NICE – Suspected cancer recognition and referral guidelines
