Private prostate cancer screening MRI scan for men without symptoms
A private prostate MRI scan can give you a clearer picture of your prostate health, even if you don’t have symptoms. Available without a GP referral or PSA blood test (a blood test that measures a protein linked to prostate health), your scan costs £550 all-inclusive and will take place at our specialist cancer imaging centre in Northwood. It will be reviewed by an experienced consultant radiologist.
What is a private prostate cancer screening MRI scan?
A private prostate MRI scan looks for changes in your prostate that may need further investigation or treatment.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your prostate. Unlike X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans, it doesn’t use ionising radiation (a stronger form of radiation).
The images can help identify areas of the prostate that may need further investigation. However, an MRI scan can’t diagnose prostate cancer on its own. If your scan shows an area of concern, you may need further tests. These can include a biopsy, where a small sample of prostate tissue is checked for cancer cells.
The scan itself takes less than 20 minutes. It’s non-invasive and doesn’t require an injection.
Who should consider a prostate cancer screening MRI scan?
You may wish to consider a prostate MRI scan if you:
- Want to understand more about your prostate health
- Have a family history of prostate cancer
- Know that you may have a higher risk of the condition
- Would prefer a non-invasive prostate health check
You can have a prostate screening MRI scan if you’re aged 50 to 74. Black men can have a scan from age 45 as their risk of developing prostate cancer can be higher.
This screening service is for men without significant symptoms of prostate cancer. Speak to your GP promptly if you have symptoms such as difficulty passing urine or notice blood in your urine. You should also seek advice about unexplained discomfort in your pelvis or any other changes that concern you.
How much does a prostate cancer screening MRI cost?
Our prostate MRI screening scan costs £550 all-inclusive.
Why choose Paul Strickland Scanner Centre for your prostate scan?
Paul Strickland Scanner Centre is an independent medical charity that has specialised in cancer imaging since 1985.
Advanced artificial intelligence (AI) helps our specialist radiologists review your prostate MRI with additional precision and confidence. The technology complements their expertise, supporting well-informed decisions about your care.
When you choose us, you’ll benefit from:
- Consultant radiologists with specialist experience in cancer imaging
- MRI technology supported by a specialised radiology artificial intelligence (AI) system
- Every scan interpreted and reported by an experienced consultant radiologist
- A service led by Professor Anwar Padhani, a world expert in prostate cancer
- Compassionate support from experienced radiographers
- An accessible location at Mount Vernon Hospital in Northwood
- Clear information about your results and possible next steps
- No GP referral or PSA blood test required.
As an independent medical charity, we reinvest income from our private services in advanced imaging and research. This helps us improve the care patients receive today while supporting advances that could benefit people in the future.
Expertise in prostate MRI
Professor Anwar Padhani, Lead Consultant for MRI at Paul Strickland Scanner Centre, leads the service.
Professor Padhani is internationally recognised for his expertise in prostate cancer imaging. He has contributed to developments in the use of MRI to assess prostate cancer in the UK and internationally.
His leadership helps ensure you receive an expert assessment informed by current evidence.
What happens when you book a prostate MRI scan?
After you submit the booking form, a member of our team will contact you on the next working day. They’ll review your information and complete the necessary MRI safety checks. You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions.
If the service is suitable for you, we’ll arrange your appointment and explain how to prepare. You won’t need to do anything differently before the scan.
Tell us if you have any implants or medical devices, or if you’ve had surgery that could affect your suitability for MRI. You should also let us know if enclosed spaces make you feel anxious so we can discuss the support that may be available.
What happens during the scan?
Your radiographer will explain what will happen and help you get into position on the scanner table. They’ll support you throughout your appointment and can hear and speak to you while the images are being taken.
You’ll need to lie still during the scan so that the scanner can produce clear images. The scan is painless and usually takes less than 20 minutes, although your overall appointment will be longer.
Understanding your results
We will assess your scan using the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS). This recognised system helps radiologists describe how likely an area is to contain cancer that may need treatment.
Your report will explain what the scan shows and if further assessment may be helpful. We’ll also send a copy to your GP.
Some scans identify an area that needs further investigation. This doesn’t mean that you have prostate cancer. Your GP will manage your onward referral for the necessary investigations.
Prostate MRI scan FAQs
Do I need a GP referral?
You can self-refer for this service, so you don’t need to arrange a GP referral first.
Do I need a PSA blood test first?
A PSA blood test isn’t required before your scan. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate that can be measured with a blood test.
What if I feel anxious in enclosed spaces?
Please tell us before your appointment if enclosed spaces make you anxious. Our team can explain what the scanner is like and discuss ways to help you feel more comfortable.
Can an MRI diagnose prostate cancer?
An MRI scan can identify areas that may need closer investigation, but it can’t confirm prostate cancer. A diagnosis can only be made by examining tissue taken during a biopsy.
