Prostate Checks Explained: Symptoms, MRI Scans, and Early Diagnosis
Blog Health News 11th June 2026 Enquiries & appointments
During Men’s Health Week, men are encouraged to prioritise their health and seek advice early if they notice any changes or symptoms linked to prostate health.
Prostate problems are extremely common, particularly in men over the age of 50, and while many conditions are non-cancerous early assessment remains one of the most important steps in protecting long-term health and wellbeing.
Some key statistics:
- Prostate symptoms become increasingly common with age, particularly in men over 50.
- Around 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. [Prostate Cancer UK]
- Prostate cancer is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK, with more than 64,000 men diagnosed each year. [Prostate Cancer UK]
- Testicular cancer is most common in men in their 20s and 30s.
- Erectile dysfunction is very common, particularly in men over 40. [NHS]
Understanding prostate health
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder. As men get older, the prostate often becomes larger, which can lead to urinary symptoms that affect daily life.
While prostate enlargement does not always indicate cancer, prostate cancer is now the most common cancer affecting men in the UK. Many men experience no symptoms in the early stages, making regular assessment especially important for those at higher risk.
Risk factors linked to prostate problems include:
- Increasing age
- Family history of prostate cancer
- Ethnicity, with Black men at greater risk
- Obesity and lifestyle factors
Research also suggests maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet and regular exercise may support overall prostate health.
Symptoms men should not ignore
Early prostate cancer doesn’t usually cause symptoms, but as the prostate enlarges, men may experience:
- Needing to urinate more frequently
- Waking during the night to urinate
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak urine flow
- Straining or taking longer to urinate
- Feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied
- Blood in the urine or semen
These symptoms are usually caused by benign prostate enlargement rather than cancer, but they should still be assessed by a GP or urology specialist.
If you are experiencing symptoms, or have a family history of prostate cancer, seeking advice early can help provide reassurance and identify any issues promptly.
The importance of prostate assessments
Given how common prostate conditions are in men over 50, regular prostate assessments can help detect problems at an earlier stage, even before symptoms develop.
A Prostate Health Check is designed to support early diagnosis and peace of mind, and assessments may include:
- A clinic consultation and symptom review
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood testing
- Physical examination where appropriate
- Advanced MRI imaging for prostate assessment
- Referral for further testing if required
Increasingly, men are undergoing MRI prostate scans to assess the prostate in greater detail, in combination with PSA test results. MRI imaging can provide a more accurate picture of prostate health and help specialists determine whether further investigation is necessary.
At KIMS Hospital, patients can access a multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI) scan, an advanced imaging technique used to detect abnormalities within the prostate.
An mpMRI scan combines multiple imaging methods to create highly detailed images of the prostate, helping clinicians identify areas that may require further investigation while also reducing unnecessary biopsies for some patients.
Geoff’s story
For many men, taking the first step towards getting checked can feel daunting. However, early diagnosis and access to specialist care can make a significant difference.
Watch Geoff’s story about his prostate cancer treatment at KIMS Hospital to learn more about his experience, from diagnosis through to treatment and recovery.
Prioritising men’s health
Men’s Health Week is also an important reminder that many health conditions affecting men, including erectile dysfunction and testicular cancer, can often be treated successfully when identified early. Many men delay seeking medical advice, particularly when symptoms seem mild or manageable. However, early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
Whether you have symptoms, a family history of prostate cancer, or simply want reassurance about your health, KIMS Hospital is here to help.
Learn more about the prostate assessments and diagnostic services available
Article produced by
KIMS Hospital, The Royal Tunbridge Wells Clinic