Q: I’ve heard about the PSA test. Isn’t that enough?
The PSA blood test has been an important tool for checking prostate health, but it is not perfect. Some aggressive prostate cancers don’t raise PSA at all, so results can look “normal” even when cancer is there. On the other hand, many men with raised PSA never develop cancer, which can lead to unnecessary worry and procedures.

Q: So what else can we do?
This is where genetics comes in. Prostate cancer is one of the cancers most strongly linked to inherited risk. That means your DNA plays a big role, even if you feel well and even if there’s no family history.

Q: What is a polygenic risk score (PRS)?
A PRS is a calculation based on many small variations in your genes. Together, they give a picture of your personal risk of prostate cancer. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime test, done from a saliva sample at home, and it can guide how and when you should be checked.

Q: Why does this matter?
Men with higher genetic risk can be up to three times more likely to die from prostate cancer if it is found late. If we know someone is at higher risk, we can monitor more closely – using MRI scans as well as PSA – to catch cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Men at lower risk can avoid unnecessary tests and anxiety.

Q: Is there evidence this works?
Yes. The UK BARCODE1 study showed that PRS testing identified high-risk men who would have been missed by PSA alone. This means genetics is the missing piece in prostate cancer prevention.

Q: How can I access this?
The AntePC test is now available in the UK through preventcancer.co.uk/prostate. It’s a simple, saliva test and once-in-a-lifetime genetic test that gives you and your doctor practical guidance on the best way to protect your health.

My advice is simple: PSA is good, but not enough on its own. Adding genetics through PRS testing helps us find cancers earlier, treat them more effectively, and save lives.