In short: In England, men are offered NHS bowel cancer screening (a home FIT kit from age 50 to 74) and lung cancer screening from 55 to 74 if they smoke or used to smoke. There's no prostate screening programme, but men aged 50 and over can ask their GP for a PSA test. Knowing your body and reporting changes early is just as important.
When it comes to men's health, cancer screening and knowing your body can be lifesaving, giving the best chance of early detection and successful treatment. The risk of many cancers rises with age, so it pays to know which checks are available. Here is a guide to the key cancer checks for men in the UK, based on current NHS guidance.
1. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, especially with increasing age. There is no national screening programme, because the main test has limitations.
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: A blood test that measures PSA, which can be raised in prostate cancer but also in non-cancerous conditions such as an enlarged prostate or infection. Men aged 50 and over can ask their GP for a PSA test after discussing the pros and cons. Black men and those with a family history are at higher risk and may wish to discuss it from age 45.
- Digital rectal examination (DRE): A doctor gently feels the prostate through the back passage to check for abnormalities.
See your GP if you have urinary symptoms such as needing to pee more often, urgency, or difficulty emptying your bladder.
2. Bowel Cancer Screening
Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme sends a home test kit to everyone aged 50 to 74 every two years.
- Faecal immunochemical test (FIT): A simple home test that detects tiny amounts of blood in a poo sample, which can be a sign of polyps or cancer.
- Colonoscopy: If your FIT result is abnormal, you'll be offered a colonoscopy, where a camera examines the bowel and polyps can be removed.
People with a strong family history may be offered earlier or more frequent checks. Don't wait for screening if you notice blood in your poo, a change in bowel habit, or unexplained weight loss.
3. Lung Cancer: Lung Health Checks
The NHS is rolling out targeted lung cancer screening in England. People aged 55 to 74 who smoke or used to smoke are invited for a lung health check and, if at higher risk, a low-dose CT scan. This can find lung cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage. A cough lasting more than three weeks should always be checked by your GP.
4. Skin Cancer
There is no routine skin cancer screening in the UK, so knowing your skin is key:
- Self-checks: Look regularly for new or changing moles, spots or sores. Use the ABCDE guide: Asymmetry, irregular Border, uneven Colour, Diameter over 6 mm, and Evolving (changing) over time.
- See your GP: Especially if you have a history of sunburn, many moles or a family history of skin cancer.
5. Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is less common, but it mainly affects younger men aged 15 to 49. There is no screening programme, but checking your testicles regularly helps you notice changes. See your GP promptly if you find a lump, swelling or any change.
Additional Considerations
- Genetic counselling: If you have a strong family history of cancer, your GP may refer you for genetic counselling or testing.
- Lifestyle: Not smoking, keeping alcohol within recommended limits, a balanced diet and regular exercise all lower cancer risk.
- Mental health: Screening and waiting for results can be stressful. Talk to your GP or a trusted person about any worries.
Men are also invited for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening, a one-off ultrasound in the year they turn 65. It isn't a cancer test, but it is an important check.
A Note on Tumour Markers
Blood tests called tumour markers (such as PSA, CA125 or CEA) can be raised in some cancers, but they are not diagnostic. They can be raised by non-cancerous conditions and can be normal even when cancer is present. An abnormal result needs further assessment by a doctor, and a normal result doesn't rule cancer out. They don't replace NHS screening or seeing your GP about symptoms.
Sources: NHS PSA testing, NHS bowel cancer screening, NHS lung cancer screening, NHS testicular cancer.
Conclusion
Taking up NHS screening invitations and knowing your body are vital parts of men's health. Screening can feel daunting, but catching cancer early, when it is most treatable, makes a real difference. Talk to your GP about your health history and risk factors, and remember: early detection isn't just about living longer, it's about living better.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should men get a PSA test?
There is no routine screening. Men aged 50 and over can ask their GP for a PSA test after discussing the pros and cons; Black men and those with a family history may discuss it from 45.
Is a raised PSA a sign of cancer?
Not necessarily. PSA can rise with an enlarged prostate, infection or recent exercise. Your doctor will advise on further tests.
What cancer screening do men get on the NHS?
In England: bowel screening from 50 to 74, and lung cancer screening from 55 to 74 for current or former smokers.
Can a blood test detect cancer?
Tumour marker tests can support assessment but are not diagnostic. Always see your GP about symptoms.
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- Full Body MOT Health Check Plus Cancer (results: next day)
- PSA Blood Test (results: same day)
This article is for general information only. Please discuss your results, and any symptoms, with a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.
