Prostate Cancer Newcastle
A prostate cancer concern is unsettling, but a clear pathway changes everything. Consultant-led care provides rapid and accurate diagnostics with measured and honest advice. If treatment is needed, every suitable option is explained clearly. If it is not, you leave with genuine reassurance.
Understanding prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with almost 50,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Around one in eight men will be diagnosed during their lifetime. Risk rises to around one in four for men with a close relative affected or for men of Black or Afro-Caribbean heritage.
The prostate is a small gland below the bladder that surrounds the urethra. Prostate cancer becomes more common with age.
A key reassurance is that many prostate cancers grow slowly. Some are unlikely ever to cause harm and may not need immediate treatment. These are often managed with careful monitoring known as active surveillance.
Other prostate cancers grow more quickly and are more likely to spread. Early detection provides the widest range of treatment options and the best chance of control. Accurate diagnosis is about distinguishing between these situations.
Consultant-led care provides a structured pathway and advice that is calm and proportionate rather than alarming.
The three types of prostate cancer
Cancer is grouped according to how far it has spread. This guides treatment decisions.
Early or localised
Cancer confined to the prostate. This stage offers the broadest range of options. For slower growing cancers, monitoring may be sufficient.
Locally advanced
Cancer that has spread beyond the prostate capsule into nearby tissues but not to distant organs.
Advanced or metastatic
Cancer that has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the bones. Treatment focuses on control and maintaining quality of life.
Symptoms and why checks still matter
Early prostate cancer frequently causes no symptoms at all, which is why proactive checks are worthwhile for men at higher risk. When symptoms do occur, they often overlap with a benign enlarged prostate.
Often no early symptoms
Early prostate cancer frequently causes no symptoms. Absence of symptoms does not mean absence of risk, particularly with age or family history.
Urinary changes
A weaker stream, increased frequency or difficulty passing urine. These symptoms often overlap with benign prostate enlargement.
Other changes
Less commonly blood in the urine or semen or new discomfort. Any such change should be assessed promptly.
Who is at higher risk?
Understanding risk helps guide whether proactive checks are worthwhile.
Age
Risk increases with age and is more common over 50.
Family History
Having a father or brother with prostate cancer increases risk.
Ethnicity
Black men are at higher risk and may wish to consider earlier checks.
Genetic Factors
Certain inherited gene changes can increase risk. Genetic testing may be discussed where relevant.
The diagnostic pathway
Modern prostate cancer diagnosis is imaging-led and more precise than in the past.
Prostate Cancer Screening
A brief physical examination that contributes to the overall assessment.
PSA blood test
An initial indicator that may prompt further checks.
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 (such as BRCA) that raise prostate cancer risk, with Informed Genomics.
Prostate Examination
A quick physical examination that adds to the overall picture of prostate health.
Prostate MRI
A detailed scan, performed before any biopsy, that can target or sometimes avoid a biopsy.
Prostate Biopsy
The step that provides a definitive diagnosis, using an MRI-targeted, lower-risk technique.
From investigation to decision
Assessment usually begins with discussion of risk, PSA testing and examination. If indicated, an MRI scan follows.
A reassuring MRI can sometimes avoid biopsy. If biopsy is recommended, it is targeted and performed using techniques designed to reduce infection risk.
Only a biopsy can confirm or rule out cancer and determine how aggressive it is.
If cancer is identified, decisions about management are made together. For slow-growing disease, active surveillance may be appropriate. Where treatment is required, surgical and radiotherapy options are explained with clear discussion of benefits and trade-offs.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for prostate cancer in Newcastle?
Measured and honest advice
Information is clear and proportionate so you can make confident decisions.
Modern MRI-led diagnosis
Imaging before biopsy improves accuracy and can spare unnecessary procedures.
Every option explained
From surveillance to surgery or radiotherapy, realistic benefits and trade-offs are discussed openly.
Fast direct access
Self-referral is welcome and diagnostics are arranged promptly to reduce uncertainty.
Frequently asked questions
Does a raised PSA mean I have prostate cancer?
No. PSA can be elevated for benign reasons. Further assessment clarifies the cause.
Do all prostate cancers need treatment?
No. Many slow-growing cancers are managed safely with active surveillance.
Will I need a biopsy?
Not always. MRI may show no suspicious areas. If biopsy is required, it is targeted using imaging guidance.
Should I be checked without symptoms?
Men at higher risk may consider proactive checks. Discussion with a consultant helps weigh benefits and limitations.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can self-refer and arrange assessment directly.
Book your urology consultation today
Consultations are available to book online for patients with or without a GP referral. Our private specialists provide world-class care in a discrete environment.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception01189207055
- Location
The Beverley Hospital, The Edge, Fifth Ave, Team Valley, Gateshead NE11 0XA
