Men’s Health Week – tackling prostate and testicular cancer

Men’s Health Week is the perfect opportunity to shine a light on topics that don’t always get the attention they deserve, particularly when it comes to prostate and testicular cancer.

While conversations around men’s health have come a long way, many men still put off regular check-ups, ignore symptoms, or simply don’t know what to look for.

This Men’s Health Week, we’re encouraging men of all ages to take their health seriously, get familiar with their bodies, and know when to seek advice.

Prostate cancer – know your risk

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK, accounting for around 28% of all male cancer cases. The risk increases with age, particularly for men over 50, and is higher if you have a family history of prostate cancer or are of Black ethnicity.

But even with these risk factors, many men don’t experience symptoms in the early stages, which is why awareness and regular health checks are so important.

When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• A weak or interrupted flow
• Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
• Pain or discomfort when urinating
• Blood in urine or semen

It’s worth noting that these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions such as an enlarged prostate. That’s where the PSA test comes in. It’s a simple blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, but they can also rise for other reasons, such as inflammation or infection of the prostate.

According to official NHS guidance and the UK Government’s advice for GPs, the PSA test can be a useful tool when used alongside other clinical assessments. If you’re over 50, or if you have risk factors, it’s well worth discussing the test with your GP. It’s a personal choice, but having the facts puts you in control of your health.

At EssexPrivateGP, we offer personalised advice around PSA testing, based on your medical history and current physical health. Our Well Man Health Checks (see below) include a PSA blood test if needed.

Testicular cancer – know your body

Although testicular cancer is far less common than prostate cancer, it tends to affect younger men, usually between the ages of 15 and 49. The good news is it’s one of the most treatable forms of cancer, especially when detected early.

The key here is self-awareness. Getting into the habit of checking your testicles once a month, ideally after a warm shower when the scrotum is relaxed, can help you spot anything unusual early.

You’re looking for:

• A painless lump or swelling in either testicle
• A feeling of heaviness or dragging in the scrotum
• A sudden build-up of fluid
• Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum

Most lumps aren’t cancerous, but it’s always best to get them checked. Early treatment is often straightforward and highly effective. The NHS provides a useful factsheet on testicular cancer (click here) if you’d like to learn more or know what to expect if you ever need to see a specialist.

Well Man Health Checks

Preventative health care like regular check-ups, blood tests, and simple conversations about your wellbeing, can catch issues before they become serious. Our GPs provide a safe, discreet space to discuss any concerns you might have, no embarrassment necessary.

Routine health checks are especially valuable if you’re over 40, have a family history of cancer, or simply haven’t had a general check-up in a while. At EssexPrivateGP, we offer tailored men’s health assessments including a comprehensive physical examination, discussion about your medical history, which can then lead to a blood test for PSA screening.

If you’ve been putting off that check-up or have questions about PSA testing, book a confidential appointment with EssexPrivateGP today.