There has been a change in national guidance on PSA testing, used to help detect prostate cancer. Under the previous Prostate Cancer Risk Management Programme (PCRMP) men without any symptoms, aged 50 and over who had considered the benefits and risks, had the right to a PSA test on the NHS if they wanted one.

The Department of Health and Social Care has confirmed the PCRMP has now been withdrawn, meaning men no longer have the right to a PSA test, and that greater discretion has been placed in the hands of the GP.

Recent headlines that men without symptoms can no longer ask their GP for a PSA blood test have left many men and their families worried and confused.

The Department has confirmed that men who are concerned about prostate cancer can continue to ask their GP for a PSA blood test, whether they have symptoms or not, and GPs can still provide one at their discretion.

We will continue to provide PSA blood testing for eligible men from our Mobile PSA Testing Clinic or Man Van in Surrey, Hampshire and W Sussex catchment area, as covered by the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust in Guildford.  Details of where the Man Van will be can be found on our website: https://prostate-project.org.uk/the-manvan/the-man-van-schedule

Early prostate cancer does not usually have symptoms, and the earlier it is found, the easier it is to treat.

We will keep you updated with further advice from the Department of Health and Social Care for GPs supporting concerned men and for the general public.