PSA Blood Test in Croydon

What it measures

• PSA (prostate specific antigen)

Who it’s for

• Men over 50, or over 45 with a family history of prostate cancer
• Black men over 45, who have a higher risk
• Needing to pass urine more often, a weak flow or getting up at night
• Monitoring a known prostate condition

The pros and cons of PSA testing

There’s no national prostate screening programme in the UK, because PSA isn’t perfect. About 3 in 4 men with a raised PSA don’t have cancer, and some prostate cancers don’t raise PSA. Even so, men over 50 can ask for a PSA test, and it’s especially worth considering if you’re over 45 and Black, or your father or brother has had prostate cancer, as your risk is higher.

What happens after a raised result

In England, the usual level for further checks is 3 ng/mL or more for men aged 50 to 69. Your GP may repeat the test, check for infection and refer you for an MRI scan. Most raised results turn out to be an enlarged prostate or inflammation.

How to prepare

• Avoid ejaculation for 48 hours before your test.
• Avoid vigorous exercise, especially cycling, for 48 hours before.
• Don’t test if you have a urine infection; wait 6 weeks after it’s been treated.
• No fasting needed. Eat and drink as normal.

How it works at our Croydon clinic

1. Book online

   Choose your test and a time that suits you. No GP referral needed.

2. A 15-minute visit

   A trained clinician takes a small blood sample at 169 Shirley Road, Croydon. Tell us if you’re nervous.

3. Results in 1–3 days

   A clear report showing each result against its reference range.

4. Next steps

   Share your report with your GP, who can arrange NHS follow-up if anything needs it.

Questions