Government to Launch At-Home Prostate Cancer Testing Program
Men over 50 in England will soon have access to routine, at-home prostate cancer blood tests for the first time, as part of a wider government plan to address health disparities faced by men and boys. The initiative, announced today, aims to improve early detection of prostate cancer and tackle broader physical and mental health challenges.
Currently, Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) testing is not routinely offered on the National Health Service (NHS), but is available if a GP suspects prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by both normal prostate cells and prostate cancer cells; elevated levels can indicate a prostate issue, perhaps cancer. this new program will allow men to request a test from their GP, even without symptoms, facilitating earlier diagnosis and treatment.
“The earlier prostate cancer is found, the easier it is to treat,” said Chiara De Biase, director of health services, equity and betterment at Prostate cancer UK. “Vital changes like giving men more control over their health and providing them with personalised support is long overdue, and we’re committed to working with the government and the NHS to turn thes words into actions that have a life-changing impact for men.” prostate Cancer UK’s online ‘Risk Checker’ remains available for men concerned about their risk.
The government’s plan also addresses mental health,partnering with the Premier League’s Together Against Suicide initiative to reduce stigma. Health Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted the critically important health inequalities faced by men, noting they die nearly four years earlier than women, with suicide being the leading cause of death for men under 50.
“For too long, men’s health has been overlooked,” Streeting stated. “We certainly know men are less likely to come forward for healthcare. From partnering with the Premier league to rolling out health support in the workplace – we’re meeting men where they are and giving them the support they need to live longer,healthier lives.” The plan seeks to close the life expectancy gap between men and women.
