Prostate Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment in London
A concern about prostate cancer can feel unsettling, but having a clear diagnostic pathway can make the next steps easier to understand. Our consultant urologists provide careful assessment, appropriate investigations and straightforward advice, so you can make informed decisions about your health.
If treatment is needed, your consultant will explain the options that may be suitable. If it is not, you will have reassurance and a clear plan for any follow-up.
Understanding prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. Around 57,900 men are diagnosed each year, and it is estimated that around one in six men will receive a diagnosis during their lifetime.
It develops in the prostate, a small gland beneath the bladder that surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. Prostate cancer becomes more common with age.
Some men have a higher risk than others. Risk is higher for Black men and for men with a close family history of prostate cancer, particularly when a father or brother has been affected. Certain inherited gene changes can also increase risk.
A reassuring point is that prostate cancer often grows slowly. Some men are diagnosed with a slow-growing cancer that is unlikely to cause problems and may not need treatment straight away. Instead, their condition may be monitored through active surveillance.
Other prostate cancers are more likely to grow or spread beyond the prostate. These may need treatment, and identifying them early can provide a wider range of options.
Our role is to provide a clear diagnostic pathway and measured, consultant-led advice. We will explain what your results mean, whether further tests are needed and what the appropriate next steps may be.
Types of prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is described according to whether it is contained within the prostate or has spread outside it. This helps guide treatment decisions.
Early or localised
The cancer is contained within the prostate gland. Depending on its features, treatment may involve active surveillance, surgery, radiotherapy or another suitable approach.
Locally advanced
The cancer has grown through the outer layer of the prostate or into nearby tissues, but has not spread to distant parts of the body.
Advanced or metastatic
The cancer has spread to other areas of the body, such as bones or lymph nodes. Treatment is focused on controlling the cancer, managing symptoms and supporting quality of life.
Symptoms and why checks still matter
Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. This means men may wish to consider a prostate health check based on their age, family history or other risk factors.
Often no early symptoms
Prostate cancer may not cause noticeable changes in its early stages. Feeling well does not always rule out a prostate concern.
Urinary changes
A weaker flow, needing to pass urine more often or difficulty starting may occur. These symptoms are also common with a benign enlarged prostate, so assessment is important to establish the cause.
Other changes
Less commonly, blood in the urine or semen, unexplained pain or new symptoms may need investigation.
Who is at higher risk?
Some men have a higher likelihood of developing prostate cancer. Understanding your personal risk can help you decide whether to arrange a consultation.
Age
The likelihood of prostate cancer increases as men get older.
Family History
A father or brother with prostate cancer can increase your own risk, particularly if they were diagnosed at a younger age.
Ethnicity
Black men have a higher risk of prostate cancer and may wish to discuss prostate health checks with a consultant.
Genetic Factors
Some inherited gene changes can increase prostate cancer risk. Genetic testing may be considered where there is a relevant personal or family history.
The diagnostic pathway
Prostate cancer assessment is guided by your individual circumstances. Your consultant will explain the purpose of each test and recommend the appropriate next steps.
Prostate Cancer Screening
A proactive prostate health assessment for men without symptoms who want to understand their personal risk.
PSA blood test
A blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen. It can provide useful information about prostate health, but it cannot diagnose cancer on its own.
The EpiSwitch® PSE Test
An advanced blood test that adds five epigenetic markers to your PSA for a clearer answer on risk.
Genetic Testing
Testing for inherited gene changes that may increase prostate cancer risk, where appropriate.
Prostate Examination
A physical examination of the prostate that can add useful information to the overall assessment.
Prostate MRI
A detailed MRI scan of the prostate can help identify areas that may need closer assessment and guide whether a biopsy is recommended.
Prostate Biopsy
If further investigation is needed, a biopsy takes small samples of prostate tissue for laboratory analysis. This is the test that can confirm whether cancer is present.
From assessment to treatment
Assessment starts with understanding your symptoms, risk factors and PSA result where available. If further tests are needed, an MRI scan is often used to provide a more detailed picture of the prostate and guide the decision about biopsy.
Not every man will need every test. Your consultant will tailor the pathway to your individual circumstances and explain what the findings mean at each stage.
If prostate cancer is diagnosed, treatment decisions depend on the grade and stage of the cancer, your general health and your priorities. Some men may be advised to have active surveillance, while others may benefit from treatment.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for prostate cancer in London?
Measured and honest advice
Clear information and proportionate guidance, helping you understand the options without unnecessary alarm.
MRI-led assessment
Appropriate imaging can provide more detail about the prostate and help guide whether further tests are needed.
Every option explained
From active surveillance to surgery or radiotherapy, your consultant will explain the potential benefits and considerations of each appropriate approach.
Consultant-led care in London
You will be assessed by a consultant urologist at The Forbury Clinic, 45 Queen Anne St, London W1G 9JF.
Frequently asked questions
Does a raised PSA mean I have prostate cancer?
No. PSA levels can rise for several reasons, including an enlarged prostate, infection or inflammation. A raised PSA result means further assessment may be needed, but it is not a diagnosis of cancer.
Do all prostate cancers need treatment?
No. Some prostate cancers grow slowly and may be monitored through active surveillance rather than treated immediately. Your consultant will explain whether monitoring or treatment is most appropriate for your diagnosis.
Will I definitely need a biopsy?
Not always. An MRI scan can help your consultant decide whether a biopsy is needed. If a biopsy is recommended, it is used to confirm a diagnosis and provide more information about the cancer.
Should I get checked if I do not have symptoms?
Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. A consultation may be worthwhile if you are concerned about your risk because of age, family history, ethnicity or a known inherited gene change.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You are welcome to self-refer and arrange a consultation directly with our team.
A clear next step for prostate concerns
Whether you want reassurance, are considering a proactive prostate check or need further assessment after a raised PSA result, our consultant urologists can help you understand the appropriate next steps.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
