Our Optimal⁺ and Ultimate⁺ Assessments include a biparametric MRI scan of the prostate, providing detailed, high-definition images, to detect abnormalities that could be associated with prostate disease or prostate cancer.
In combination with a detailed medical questionnaire, a consultation with your Preventicum Doctor, your PSA blood test result and ultrasound scans, your Optimal⁺ or Ultimate⁺ Assessment will provide an even more thorough evaluation of your prostate health.
Why should I have a biparametric MRI scan of the prostate?
This scan is the most accurate method available for looking at the structure of the prostate and detecting significant prostate cancer. If further specialist investigation is required, we can arrange a referral to a Consultant Urologist. In combination with your PSA blood test result, a detailed medical history questionnaire and an ultrasound of your prostate, this dedicated MRI scan will add vital information to our assessment of your prostate health.
Who can have a biparametric MRI scan of the prostate?
Our Optimal⁺ and Ultimate⁺ assessments include a biparametric prostate MRI scan of the prostate, for male clients over 45 years old, or younger if they have a first degree relative (father or brother) who has had prostate cancer. If you have had a prostate cancer diagnosis or are already under the care of a Consultant Urologist for your prostate, a biparamatric prostate MRI scan may not be suitable for you and we recommend you have our Optimal or Ultimate Assessment.
Who cannot have a biparametric MRI scan of the prostate?
If you have ever had a prostate cancer diagnosis or are under the care of a Consultant Urologist for your prostate health, this scan is not recommended for you. If this is the case, we recommend you book an Optimal or Ultimate assessment.
Can I have a biparametric prostate MRI if I am under 45 years old, with no family history of prostate cancer?
No, we do not perform biparametric prostate MRI scans on clients under the age of 45 who have no family history of prostate cancer. From detailed analysis and the latest research, these scans are not clinically indicated in this age group without risk factors. Prostate cancer is very rare in men under 45 and routine imaging in low-risk individuals can lead to unnecessary anxiety, incidental findings and further unwarranted investigations.
Our approach aligns with best clinical practice and ensures that medical imaging is used responsibly and effectively. If you have concerns about your prostate health, we recommend discussing these with your Preventicum Doctor on the day of your assessment.
How did Preventicum previously assess my prostate health?
Until now, we have included a PSA blood test, physical examination of your prostate (with your consent), an ultrasound scan to assess prostate volume and a detailed medical history questionnaire to assess your prostate health. Recent research has shown the significant additional value that a biparametric prostate MRI scan provides for assessing prostate health in asymptomatic men and so we are delighted to be able to offer this to our eligible male clients.
Does this scan test for prostate cancer?
Prostate MRI has been shown to detect the majority of life-threatening prostate cancers and the accuracy of the assessment is improved when it is used in conjunction with the PSA level.
It is important to realise that neither MRI nor PSA detect all prostate cancers. In particular, they may not be able to detect small, low grade tumours that are very common (often present in men over 60) and are not immediately dangerous. In addition, MRI sometimes identifies an area as suspicious that does not turn out to be cancer after further evaluation with a Consultant Urologist.
How often should I have a prostate MRI?
As there are no significant risks associated with having an MRI scan, we recommend including a prostate MRI in your annual Preventicum assessment to monitor for the development of life-threatening prostate cancers.
Who will report my prostate MRI?
We are delighted to partner with HLHProstate for our prostate imaging. HLHProstate is a UK network of expert, specialist Uroradiologists who will write a bespoke, structured report of your prostate scan, supported by advanced AI technology.
What happens if you find something abnormal on my prostate MRI scan?
If we have any concerns about your prostate health from any of the tests we carry out including your PSA blood test, physical examination, any symptoms or your prostate volume, your Preventicum Doctor will refer you to a specialist Consultant Urologist in our network for further discussion and evaluation.
