Symptoms of prostate cancer: what to look out for and how to check

Specialists in the United Kingdom have advised that routine prostate cancer testing should be provided only to a limited number of men considered to be at high risk. Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among men in the UK, with roughly 55,000 new cases each year.

The prostate is a small walnut-sized gland located beneath the bladder in the pelvis. It encircles the urethra, the passage that carries urine out of the body. Prostate cancer occurs when cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably, often developing slowly without noticeable symptoms for many years. In some men it never becomes dangerous, while in others it can progress rapidly and prove life-threatening. Detecting the disease early gives the best chance of successful treatment.

According to Prostate Cancer UK, one in eight men will experience prostate cancer during their lifetime, and about 12,200 deaths from the disease occur every year. It is most often found in older men, particularly those over 75, and cases among men under 50 are uncommon. The risk is higher for those with a close family member who has had the illness.

The organisation offers a brief online risk-check tool, and anyone who believes they may be more vulnerable is encouraged to speak with their GP.

Common Symptoms

• Frequent need to urinate, especially during the night
• Difficulty beginning urination or a weak urine flow
• Longer time needed to empty the bladder

These signs can also be linked to other health issues, but any noticeable changes should be assessed by a medical professional.

How Doctors Investigate Prostate Cancer

There is no single definitive test for the disease. Diagnosis may involve a prostate-specific antigen blood test, medical imaging and a biopsy examined in a laboratory. A raised PSA level does not always indicate cancer, as it can also increase due to infection or other conditions. Some men with high PSA levels may have cancers that would never have developed into a problem, resulting in unnecessary stress and treatment.

Men aged 50 or above can request a PSA test from their GP, who will explain both the benefits and risks. Patients are usually advised to avoid sexual activity and strenuous exercise such as cycling for two days before the test, as these factors can influence the results. Researchers are also evaluating whether combining PSA testing with MRI scans could improve early detection.

Screening Recommendations

There is currently no national screening programme for prostate cancer, despite it being the most common cancer without routine screening. In November 2025, the UK National Screening Committee proposed that only those at significantly elevated risk should receive regular testing. It recommended screening every two years for men aged 45 to 61 who carry BRCA gene mutations.

The committee explained that screening could overlook aggressive cancers while identifying others that would not cause harm, potentially exposing patients to avoidable treatments that may result in complications such as loss of bladder control. The guidance received mixed reactions: Cancer Research UK supported the proposal, while Prostate Cancer UK and Prostate Cancer Research expressed disappointment, citing concerns for high-risk groups, including Black men and those with a family history of the disease. Final recommendations are expected in March 2026.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies depending on how advanced the cancer is. If detected early and not growing rapidly, it may be monitored rather than treated immediately. Some cases can be cured through surgery or radiotherapy, while hormone therapy may help slow the disease. Other options include destroying cancer cells using extreme cold or targeted ultrasound.

Author: Zoe Harrison