Prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers among men in the UK, and early detection is a critical factor in improving treatment outcomes. PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) testing has long been an essential tool in identifying potential prostate health issues, and the emergence of PSA lateral flow (LFT) self-tests presents a significant opportunity to improve awareness and accessibility. However, recent media coverage has been sceptical of their benefits.
What is clear from these articles is that the purpose of PSA self-tests is often misunderstood. PSA self-tests are not diagnostic tools for detecting prostate cancer but rather an early warning system, helping men identify potential concerns that should be further evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Nearly half of the 57,000 annual UK cases are diagnosed at an advanced, incurable stage, contributing to 13,000 deaths each year—one of the highest rates in Europe. While the NHS aims to detect 75% of major cancers by 2028, the absence of a national prostate cancer screening programme makes this target challenging.
PSA LFTs, which require no medical assistance, empower men to take control of prostate cancer screening, but understanding the basics is key to using them effectively.
Understanding PSA Testing
PSA testing measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. While elevated PSA levels do not necessarily indicate prostate cancer, they can signal an issue that warrants further investigation. A high PSA level may be caused by benign conditions such as prostatitis or an enlarged prostate, but it can also be an early indicator of prostate cancer. The key to PSA testing is not to provide an outright diagnosis but to offer men the ability to assess their risk and seek timely medical consultation if necessary.
Despite its well-documented benefits, the absence of a UK screening programme for prostate cancer leaves thousands of men unaware of their prostate health status. This gap in early detection underscores the potential value of PSA self-tests in increasing awareness and encouraging proactive health monitoring.
The Benefits of PSA Self-Testing
- Increased Awareness: Many men remain unaware of their prostate cancer risk until they experience symptoms. Self-tests encourage early screening and proactive healthcare.
- Greater Accessibility: Traditional PSA tests require a GP appointment and a blood draw, which can be a barrier for some. At-home tests provide a convenient alternative.
- Encouragement for Further Medical Consultation: When used correctly, self-tests can prompt men to seek medical advice sooner if their PSA levels are elevated.
Addressing Concerns About Self-Test Accuracy
As a BBC article points out, inconsistencies in results across different at-home PSA tests are a concern. This highlights the importance of purchasing trusted products that are MHRA-registered and CE-marked for self-testing to ensure reliability. The presence of unregulated tests on platforms like Amazon is an issue that regulatory bodies are actively working to address. Consumers should always look for reputable manufacturers and follow proper testing procedures to obtain the most accurate results.
The BBC’s trial also demonstrated that errors in testing methods could contribute to unreliable results. This reinforces the need for better education on how to correctly perform these tests. Much like learning to use lateral flow COVID-19 tests, familiarity and proper guidance will improve accuracy over time. Newfoundland provides step-by-step instructions, video demonstrations, and 24/7 customer service to support users.
Improving PSA Self-Testing for the Future
While PSA self-tests are still a relatively new concept, they hold immense promise in bridging the gap in early detection. Moving forward, steps should be taken to ensure:
- Clearer public education on how to use PSA self-tests properly to minimise user error.
- Stronger regulation to prevent the sale of unverified products.
- Continued research and refinement to improve test reliability and usability.
Our CEO, Frederick Manduca, emphasised the importance of responsible self-testing initiatives, stating:
"Newfoundland Diagnostics is proud to partner with men’s health charity, CHAPS in the effort to improve accessibility and education around PSA testing. Our collaboration aims to ensure that men have access to reliable and accurate tests while also equipping them with the knowledge to interpret their results correctly and seek appropriate medical follow-up when needed."
PSA self-testing is a step forward in empowering men to take charge of their health. These tests are not intended to replace medical consultations but to serve as an additional tool for early detection and awareness. While challenges exist, they should not overshadow the potential benefits that self-testing provides. By focusing on education, regulation, and responsible usage, PSA self-tests can play a crucial role in reducing undiagnosed prostate cancer cases and ultimately saving lives.
The Newfoundland Prostate Health Test is available for £12.99 online as well as in local stores including Sainsbury’s and WHSmith.
