Prostate Specific Antigen ( PSA ) Test

The NHS Prostate Cancer Risk Management Programme (PCRMP) plays a pivotal role in guiding general practitioners (GPs) and primary care professionals in the UK. It focuses on counselling asymptomatic men aged 50 and over who are considering prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer. The PCRMP is designed to provide comprehensive, evidence-based information to assist in these discussions, ensuring that men make informed decisions about PSA testing.

Under this programme, any asymptomatic man aged 50 or older has the opportunity to discuss the PSA test with their GP. It is important to note that GPs are advised not to proactively raise the issue of PSA testing with asymptomatic men, but rather to provide information and support when men initiate the conversation.

The PCRMP emphasizes the importance of delivering balanced information about the benefits and limitations of PSA testing. This approach helps men aged 50 and over to understand the potential implications of the test results and make an informed choice. For those who opt for testing based on this informed discussion, the PSA test is available free of charge on the NHS.

Before undergoing a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, there are certain pre-test conditions to consider, as they can affect...