A new trial in Essex is allowing men to screen for prostate cancer in the comfort of their own homes, thanks to a collaboration between Dr. Rav Sodi, a Consultant Clinical Biochemist at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire- and Edinburgh-based MedTech company TestCard, and global diagnostics manufacturer Healgen.
The groundbreaking initiative aims to make prostate cancer screening more accessible and reduce barriers that often prevent patients from attending traditional clinic-based appointments. Under the trial, patients will receive a TestCard test kit by post, containing the Healgen semi-quantitative PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) lateral flow test. The test, which requires only a finger prick blood sample, can be completed in just 10 minutes. Patients will also be invited to download a mobile app to guide them through the testing process. Once completed, the results and images are sent directly to a clinician, who will then determine the next steps.
Historically, screening for prostate cancer has involved patients travelling to clinics for blood tests, followed by another visit to receive results. This process can be time-consuming, inconvenient, and may discourage some men from attending screenings. By offering testing at home, the trial aims to make the process simpler, faster, and more private, encouraging more men to take part in early detection.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK, affecting at least one in eight men in their lifetime. When caught early, the disease has a five-year survival rate of more than 98%. However, when diagnosed at later stages, the survival rate drops significantly, with Stage 4 prostate cancer having a five-year survival rate as low as 28%. Early screening and intervention are crucial to saving lives.
Dr. Sodi, who is leading the trial, believes that home testing could be a game changer in the fight against prostate cancer. “I am excited to introduce a new way to screen patients for prostate cancer, in the home,” he said. “I believe we will catch more prostate cancer cases early by making it easier for patients to screen themselves, which may lead to saving more lives.”
The trial is also expected to alleviate pressures on healthcare clinics by reducing the number of patients needing in-person appointments. “Screening in the home can empower patients to take control of their healthcare, freeing up clinics and clinicians to focus on those who need immediate care,” Dr. Sodi added.
Dr. Andrew Botham, Chief Scientific Officer at TestCard, expressed pride in the partnership with Mid and South Essex NHS and Dr. Sodi. “This trial aligns perfectly with our mission at TestCard to make healthcare more accessible and convenient for all,” he said.
Bryan Fang, CEO at Healgen, also praised the initiative. “We are delighted to support TestCard and the NHS with our market-leading products in such an innovative way,” he said.
The trial is part of a growing effort to modernise healthcare and make essential screenings more accessible, helping to save lives through earlier detection and improved patient convenience.