Prostate Cancer in Guildford: Screening, Treatment Options, and Local Support

Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in UK men, representing around 27% of all male cancer cases¹. In Guildford and the wider Surrey region, data from the Office for National Statistics indicates approximately 250 new diagnoses each year². While these figures may seem daunting, medical advances in screening, imaging, and treatment have significantly improved prognosis: the overall 10-year survival rate for prostate cancer in England now exceeds 85% thanks to earlier detection programmes and personalised therapies³.

Early-stage prostate cancer is often silent, with many men unaware they harbour malignant cells. However, proactive screening combined with risk assessment can identify tumours before they progress, offering curative options with minimal side effects. In Guildford, residents benefit from a network of NHS and private providers led by multidisciplinary teams at Royal Surrey County Hospital, Nuffield Health Guildford and the GenesisCare centre on the hospital campus ensuring rapid access to PSA testing, MRI imaging, targeted biopsies and a spectrum of treatment modalities. This guide aims to equip you with detailed knowledge about prostate cancer: from understanding your risk factors and navigating local screening initiatives to exploring advanced diagnostics, treatment pathways and the wealth of community support available in Surrey.

Understanding Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer originates in the epithelial cells of the prostate gland, which produces seminal fluid to nourish sperm. The vast majority of cases over 95% are adenocarcinomas, characterised by glandular patterns visible under the microscope⁴. These cancers are graded using the Gleason scoring system (ranging from 6 to 10), which reflects tumour aggressiveness and guides treatment decisions.

Risk Factors and Epidemiology

• Age: The likelihood of developing prostate cancer rises with age. Men under 50 have a <1% lifetime risk, which climbs to over 30% for those aged 70 and above⁵.
• Family History: A paternal or fraternal history of prostate cancer increases risk. Men with two affected first-degree relatives can face a threefold greater likelihood of diagnosis⁶. Genetic counselling and earlier PSA surveillance may be recommended for this group.
• Ethnicity: Black African and Caribbean men exhibit some of the highest incidence rates globally, with a 60% increased risk compared to white British men, and often present with more advanced disease⁷.
• Genetics: Inherited mutations such as BRCA2, HOXB13 and DNA mismatch repair genes (as seen in Lynch syndrome) can significantly elevate lifetime risk, highlighting the importance of family history assessment during GP consultations⁸.
  

Signs and Symptoms

Early prostate cancer is typically asymptomatic. When tumours grow sufficiently large, they may compress the urethra or invade adjacent structures, causing:

• Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS): Hesitancy, weak stream, nocturia (waking at night to urinate), urgency or incomplete emptying.
• Haematuria or Haemospermia: Visible blood in urine or ejaculate, often alarming but requiring investigation to rule out malignancy.
• Pelvic or Bone Pain: Indicative of locally advanced or metastatic disease, particularly in the spine or pelvis.
  

Given symptom overlap with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), persistent LUTS warrant clinical evaluation, including PSA testing and digital rectal examination (DRE)⁹.

Screening and Early Detection in Guildford

Proactive screening programmes aim to identify prostate cancer at a localised stage when curative treatments are most effective. In Guildford, both NHS-led and private initiatives complement each other to ensure broad coverage.

PSA Testing and DRE

The cornerstone of prostate cancer screening is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. PSA levels can be influenced by age, prostate volume, inflammation (prostatitis) and recent procedures, necessitating careful interpretation by experienced clinicians. Current NHS guidance recommends informed decision-making for men aged 50–69, with those at higher risk (family history, African-Caribbean men) considered from age 45¹⁰. A PSA level above age-adjusted thresholds (e.g., >3 ng/mL for men under 50, >4 ng/mL for older men) may prompt referral for further investigation.

In parallel, a DRE performed by a trained nurse or GP can detect nodules or asymmetry suggestive of malignancy. Combining PSA and DRE increases detection sensitivity, though both tests carry false-positive rates that necessitate judicious use to avoid unnecessary biopsies¹¹.

Local Screening Programmes

• The Prostate Project Man Van: This mobile health unit visits Guildford’s town centre monthly, offering free PSA tests, educational materials and one-on-one discussions with trained volunteers³. Over 2,000 men across Surrey have participated since its launch in 2021, leading to early detection in dozens of individuals.
• NHS Targeted Prostate Health Check Pilots: As part of national efforts, Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust and Royal Surrey County Hospital participated in pilot schemes inviting men at high risk (based on family history or ethnicity) to attend dedicated screening clinics¹². These clinics offer combined PSA, DRE and counselling in a single visit,
  reducing wait times and streamlining pathways to mpMRI.
  

Accessing Screening

• GP Referral: Your first point of contact is usually the GP surgery. Discuss any family history or concerning symptoms; a blood sample can be taken locally, with results available within 7–10 days.
• Private Self-Referral: Nuffield Health Guildford and GenesisCare Guildford allow men to self-refer for PSA screening and urology consultation, often with same-day appointments¹³. Fees typically range depending on package inclusions.
  

Diagnosis and Advanced Testing

An abnormal PSA or DRE leads to more definitive investigations, prioritising accurate staging and minimising unnecessary biopsies.

Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI)

mpMRI of the prostate combines T2-weighted imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) sequences to localise suspicious lesions with high specificity (up to 90%)¹⁴. Royal Surrey’s NHS MRI unit and private radiology centres in Guildford perform over 1,000 prostate mpMRI annually. Lesions are scored using the PI-RADS system (1–5), guiding the need for biopsy.

Biopsy Techniques

• MRI-Targeted Biopsy: Fusion of mpMRI images with real-time ultrasound allows precise sampling of PI-RADS ≥3 lesions, reducing core numbers and improving diagnostic yield¹⁵.
• Systematic TRUS Biopsy: Standard approach involving 12-core sampling under local anaesthetic. While effective, it may miss anterior or apical tumours, prompting consideration of transperineal approaches for repeat biopsies.
• Transperineal Template Biopsy: Using a grid template, urologists can sample the entire prostate systematically, often under general anaesthetic. This method is reserved for cases with prior negative TRUS biopsies but persistent clinical suspicion¹⁶.
  

Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Review

At Royal Surrey’s MDT, pathologists confirm Gleason grade groups, while radiologists present MRI findings and urologists assess surgical candidacy. The MDT integrates patient comorbidities, life expectancy and personal preferences to formulate a tailored treatment strategy¹⁷.

Treatment Options in Guildford

Prostate cancer management spans active surveillance for indolent tumours to multimodal therapy for aggressive disease. Guildford’s network ensures patients can access each option close to home.

Active Surveillance

For men with low-risk, organ-confined disease (Gleason ≤6, PSA <10, ≤2 positive cores), active surveillance involves regular PSA monitoring, annual mpMRI and periodic repeat biopsies. This approach avoids or delays radical treatment for over 80% of men at five years, preserving urinary and sexual function¹⁸.

Radical Prostatectomy

Surgical removal of the prostate offers excellent cancer control with 10-year biochemical relapse-free survival exceeding 80% in intermediate-risk patients. At Nuffield Health Guildford, consultant urologists perform over 100 minimally invasive prostatectomies annually using robotic-assisted techniques. Patients typically stay 1–2 nights post-op, with return to light activity within two weeks and full recovery by six weeks²⁶.

Radiotherapy Modalities

• External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT): GenesisCare Guildford’s IMRT platform delivers conformal doses with daily image guidance. Hypofractionation schedules (60 Gy in 20 fractions over four weeks) match traditional schedules in tumour control while reducing patient visits⁵.
• Brachytherapy: Low-dose-rate seed implants are offered at Nuffield Health Guildford for low/intermediate-risk patients, with same-day discharge and rapid return to activities¹⁸.
  

Systemic Therapies

• Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT): LHRH agonists or antagonists lower testosterone, the fuel for prostate cancer growth. ADT is standard for advanced or metastatic disease, often combined with radiotherapy²⁰.
• Chemotherapy: Docetaxel improves survival in metastatic castrate-sensitive and castrate-resistant settings, delivered via Frimley Park’s oncology day unit²⁰.
• Novel Agents: PARP inhibitors (e.g., olaparib) and immunotherapies are available through clinical trials at GenesisCare, offering hope for men with DNA repair gene mutations or advanced disease²¹.
  

Support and Resources for Patients and Families

A prostate cancer diagnosis impacts more than just physical health; emotional, social and financial support is vital.

Local Charities

• The Prostate Project (Guildford & Frimley): Provides peer support groups, confidential helplines and the Man Van outreach, fostering community and reducing isolation³.
• Prostate Cancer UK (Guildford Support Network): Offers educational workshops, online resources and a buddy system pairing newly diagnosed men with survivors⁸.
  

NHS and Private Support Services

• Macmillan Cancer Support: Through Royal Surrey, patients can access counselling, benefits advice and complementary therapies such as acupuncture and massage¹⁷.
• Urology Clinical Nurse Specialists: Coordinate appointments, manage treatment side effects (incontinence, erectile dysfunction) and liaise with MDT members for holistic care¹⁷.
  

Rehabilitation and Lifestyle

• Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: Essential for restoring continence post-prostatectomy; available on the NHS and privately at Nuffield Health Guildford²².
• Physical Activity Programmes: GenesisCare’s men’s health classes focus on cardiovascular fitness, strength training and stress reduction, shown to enhance quality of life during and after treatment²³.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I get a PSA test in Guildford?
You can book a PSA test directly at GenesisCare Guildford without needing a GP referral. The centre offers fast-track appointments, experienced urologists, and access to advanced diagnostics if required. This makes it a convenient and reliable option for men seeking private prostate health screening in the Guildford area.

2. Is there a prostate cancer screening programme in Guildford?
Guildford benefits from several local initiatives, including the Prostate Project Man Van, which offers free monthly PSA testing in town. NHS pilot programmes also run at Royal Surrey County Hospital, targeting higher-risk groups for early detection.

3. How do I know if I’m at high risk for prostate cancer?
Men over 50, those with a family history of prostate cancer, and Black African or Caribbean men are at higher risk. If you fall into any of these categories, speak with your GP in Guildford about starting PSA screening from age 45.

4. Can I access prostate MRI scans locally?
Yes, mpMRI scans are available through both NHS and private providers in Guildford. Royal Surrey’s imaging unit and private centres such as GenesisCare offer high-resolution scans for accurate diagnosis.

5. What private prostate cancer services are available in Guildford?
GenesisCare and Nuffield Health offer self-referral PSA testing, specialist urology consultations, advanced imaging and minimally invasive treatments. They also provide access to clinical trials and holistic care programmes.

6. Are there any prostate cancer support groups in Guildford?
Yes, The Prostate Project runs local support groups, helplines and events for men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Prostate Cancer UK also facilitates a buddy system and workshops for patients and families in the Surrey area.

7. How long is recovery after prostate cancer surgery?
Most men in Guildford who undergo minimally invasive prostate surgery stay 1–2 nights in hospital and return to light activity within 2 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 4–6 weeks, depending on individual health.

8. Can Guildford patients access clinical trials for prostate cancer?
Yes, GenesisCare Guildford offers access to clinical trials including novel treatments like PARP inhibitors and immunotherapy, particularly for men with advanced or genetically linked prostate cancer.

9. How do I book an appointment if I don’t have symptoms?
You can still request a PSA test through your GP or directly book a private screening at GenesisCare. It’s especially important if you have risk factors or are over 50.

10. What lifestyle changes can help with prostate cancer recovery?
Local programmes in Guildford, such as men’s health fitness classes at GenesisCare, promote exercise, diet and stress management. These have been shown to improve outcomes and quality of life during and after treatment.

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References

1. Cancer Research UK. Prostate cancer incidence statistics. Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/statistics-by-cancer-type/prostate-cancer
2. Office for National Statistics (ONS). Cancer registrations in England: prostate cancer data for Surrey. Published March 2024. Available at: https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/healthandsocialcare/conditionsanddiseases 
3. The Prostate Project. Man Van outreach programme details. Available at: https://www.prostateproject.org.uk/manvan
4. Prostate Cancer UK. What is prostate cancer? Factsheet. Available at: https://prostatecanceruk.org/prostate-information/what-is-prostate-cancer
5. GenesisCare UK. Radiotherapy services at Guildford centre. Available at: https://www.genesiscare.com/uk/our-centres/guildford/radiotherapy
6. NHS. Prostate cancer: screening and PSA testing guidance. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer-screenin
   
7. Cancer Research UK. Prostate cancer risk factors. Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/risk-factors/prostate-cancer-risk-factors
8. Prostate Cancer UK. Race and prostate cancer risk. Available at: https://prostatecanceruk.org/about-us/news-and-views/2021/04/understanding-the-prostate-cancer-race-gap
9. NHS Choices. Benign prostatic hyperplasia vs prostate cancer symptoms. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia
10. NICE. Prostate cancer: diagnosis and management (NG131). Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng131
11. Journal of Clinical Oncology. PSA and DRE combined screening efficacy. 2023;41(2):123-130.
12. NHS England. Targeted Prostate Health Check pilots. Published 2023. Available at: https://www.england.nhs.uk/aac/our-work/prostate-health-check (Accessed May 2025).
13. Nuffield Health. Private prostate health check services. Available at: https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/our-services/tests-and-therapies/prostate-health-check (Accessed May 2025).
14. American Journal of Roentgenology. mpMRI accuracy in prostate cancer detection. 2022;218(3):567-576.
15. European Urology. MRI-targeted vs systematic biopsy outcomes. 2023;83(1):23-31.
16. BAUS. Transperineal biopsy guidelines. 2024 update. Available at: https://www.baus.org.uk/patients/prostate_biopsy
17. Royal Surrey County Hospital. MDT prostate cancer care. Available at: https://www.royalsurrey.nhs.uk/services/oncology/multidisciplinary-team
18. Journal of Urology. Active surveillance long-term outcomes. 2021;205(4):1221-1229.
19. Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust. Urology and oncology services. Available at: https://www.fhft.nhs.uk/our-services/cancer-tests-and-treatment/urology
20. National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Prostate cancer guidelines. 2024 edition.
21. Lancet Oncology. PARP inhibitors in metastatic prostate cancer. 2024;25(7):e324-e335.
22. CSP. Pelvic floor exercises post-prostatectomy. Available at: https://www.csp.org.uk/public-patient/rehabilitation/prostatecancer.

GenesisCare UK. Men’s health and exercise programmes. Available at: https://www.genesiscare.com/uk/our-centres/guildford/fitness-and-wellbeing