Information about the PSA Blood Test at Bramhall Health Centre

A message from Dr Leach.

Key Summary Points

• The PSA test is a simple blood test to help check your prostate health. It's available for men aged 45 and over who wish to be tested.
• A raised PSA level doesn't automatically mean you have cancer. It can be caused by many other common conditions, and we will always discuss the results with you.
• You do not need a physical examination (like a digital rectal exam) before having a PSA blood test at our practice.
• To ensure the test is as accurate as possible, please avoid strenuous exercise and ejaculation for 48 hours beforehand. You do not need to fast.

What Happens Next?

If you are 45 or over and, after considering the information, you would like to have a PSA test, the process is straightforward.

1. Book Your Test: Please contact the reception team at Bramhall Health Centre to book a blood test appointment with one of our nurses.
2. Getting Your Results: Your results are usually available within one to two weeks. If you have not heard from us by then, please call the surgery.
3. Discussing Your Results: If your PSA level is raised, a clinician will contact you to discuss what this means. The first step may be to repeat the test. If it remains high, we will discuss referring you to a specialist for further investigation.

When to Contact Us

If you are experiencing new or worrying symptoms, such as changes in how you pass urine (e.g., needing to go more often, especially at night, or difficulty starting) or erectile difficulties, please book a routine appointment to discuss them with a GP. For urgent medical advice when the surgery is closed, please visit NHS 111 online or call 111. In a medical emergency, always call 999. 

Further Information from the NHS

For a comprehensive overview of the PSA test, including a detailed look at the benefits and risks, we recommend reading the official information from the NHS.