94% of GPs would support launch of a national prostate cancer screening programme for high-risk men

• 400 GPs were surveyed as part of new research

• 94% declared support for the roll-out of a national screening programme for high-risk groups

• 93% believe that a national screening programme would improve diagnosis rates and patient outcomes

• 94% believe that recent diagnostic innovation has reduced the risk of prostate cancer overdiagnosis

• 62% were unaware of one or more of the major prostate cancer risk factors for men, highlighting the need for a screening programme

As the National Screening Committee reviews prostate cancer screening policy, GPs across the UK were asked for their opinions on the reforms under consideration.

The survey results showed overwhelming support for the introduction of a national screening programme targeted at high-risk groups.

94% of surveyed GPs said they supported this (374/400) and 93% said they believed such a programme would have a positive outcome on diagnosis and patient outcomes.

When asked about the possibility of overdiagnosis, 94% said that the recent introduction of MRI scans – in addition to PSA testing – in the prostate cancer diagnostic pathway had reduced the risks of overdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies.

Lack of awareness around risk factors

When asked to identify which groups of men were at the highest risk of prostate cancer, just 38% of GPs correctly identified Black men, and only 53% correctly identified men with a close family history.

A lack of existing clear national guidelines was cited by 24% of respondents as a barrier to implementing a national screening programme for high-risk groups.

A strengthened case for urgent reform

Prostate Cancer Research, who commissioned the research, are calling for urgent improvements to screening provision to tackle rising prostate cancer deaths and health inequality in the UK.

According to analysis published by the charity at the end of 2024, the introduction of a targeted national prostate cancer screening programme would deliver:

• 775 additional early diagnoses annually for high-risk men aged 45-69
• Almost 300 men per year being spared a stage 4 diagnosis, when prostate cancer becomes incurable
• £11,900 net economic benefit for every man diagnosed, if screening both Black men and men with a family history

This would be achieved using current technologies and pathways, and by including men from the three high-risk groups identified by the UK National Screening Committee (UKNSC):  Black men, those with BRCA1/2 mutations, and those with a family history of prostate cancer.

Dr Chris Langley, a GP practising in Henley, whose surgery has been proactively reaching out to high-risk patients for the past two years, said: 

“The clear health inequality in prostate cancer outcomes requires action. This survey demonstrates that GPs across the UK are ready to embrace a targeted screening programme to address this unacceptable disparity. Yet, the findings also highlight gaps in awareness of key risk factors, reinforcing the need for clearer National Guidelines.

We know that men from high-risk groups, particularly Black men and those with family history, are disproportionately affected by this disease and face worse outcomes. As GPs, we have a responsibility to advocate for equal access to healthcare and early cancer diagnosis.

I strongly encourage my GP colleagues to add their voice to Prostate Cancer Research’s call for a national targeted screening programme and help us save lives and reduce health inequality within our communities.”

David James, Director of Patient Projects and Influencing, Prostate Cancer Research, said:

“GPs are on the frontline of men’s health, and their overwhelming support for a targeted prostate cancer screening programme sends a clear message: the status quo isn’t working.

While GPs back change, our findings also highlight gaps in awareness around key risk factors like family history and being Black — which reinforces the urgent need for a national screening programme.

At Prostate Cancer Research, we’re heartened that GPs recognise the potential for earlier diagnosis and better survival. This is about delivering better outcomes, reducing suffering, and ensuring no man is held back by his background or his genetic predisposition.”

ENDS

Notes To Editors

• Prostate Cancer Research commissioned OnePoll to poll 400 UK-based GPs between March 27th and April 2^nd
• GPs were asked: “How do you feel about the idea of a national screening programme for prostate cancer targeted at high-risk groups (e.g., men with a family history, Black men and men with certain genetic mutations) aged 45 and over, using PSA testing as a first step.”
• 94% said they supported this (374/400) and 93% said they believed such a programme would have a positive outcome on diagnosis and patient outcomes.
• GPs were also asked: “Do you believe the introduction of MRI scans in the prostate cancer diagnostic pathway has reduced the risks of overdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies?”
• 94% (377/400) responded Yes significantly, or Yes, somewhat
• GPs were asked: “In your clinical opinion, which of the following groups are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to the general male population?”
• 53% responded Men with a first-degree relative who has had prostate cancer and 38% responded Black men.

Available spokespeople:

• A UK GP who can share their perspective on screening
• A senior representative from Prostate Cancer Research
• A man with experience of a prostate cancer diagnosis

If you have further questions, or would like to be connected with one of the listed spokespeople, please contact Jess Farmery: jessica.farmery@lexcomm.co.uk

For more information on Prostate Cancer Research’s Proactive for your Prostate Campaign, visit: https://proactiveforyourprostate.co.uk/