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Getting Tested

The PSA test, MRI scans, and biopsies, explained plainly. Plus a comprehensive directory of prostate cancer testing centres across Nigeria.

Find a Testing Centre

How to Get Tested

When to Start

If you are a Black man, start PSA testing at age 40. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, consider starting even earlier. Discuss with your doctor.

i. The PSA Blood Test

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test is the most common first step. PSA is a protein made by the prostate that naturally circulates in your blood. A higher PSA level can be a red flag, but it doesn't always mean cancer.

Other things that can raise PSA levels:

  • An enlarged prostate (BPH)
  • A recent prostate infection (prostatitis)
  • Recent sexual activity or vigorous cycling

PSA Levels — What They Mean

  • Below 4 ng/mL: Generally normal (but can vary by age)
  • 4–10 ng/mL: "Grey area," further investigation recommended
  • Above 10 ng/mL: High concern, requires follow-up

Note: Black men tend to have naturally higher baseline PSA levels. Your doctor will interpret your results in context of your age, ethnicity, and history.

ii. MRI Scans

If your PSA test raises concerns, an MRI scan may be recommended. This takes detailed pictures of your prostate to identify suspicious areas. MRI scans:

  • Are non-invasive and don't involve radiation
  • Help doctors decide if a biopsy is needed
  • Allow more targeted and precise biopsy if needed

iii. Biopsy

A biopsy is the only way to confirm whether cancer is present. A small piece of tissue is removed from the prostate and examined under a microscope.

There are two main approaches:

  • Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) Biopsy: Needle inserted through the rectum
  • Transperineal Biopsy: Needle inserted through the skin between the testicles and anus; lower infection risk

Both are done under local anaesthesia. You may notice blood in urine or semen for a few days afterwards. This is normal.

iv. Understanding the Gleason Score

If a biopsy confirms cancer, the Gleason Score tells you how aggressive it is. A pathologist rates the cells on a scale of 1–5, then adds the two most common patterns seen:

  • Gleason 6 (3+3): Low risk, slow-growing
  • Gleason 7 (3+4 or 4+3): Intermediate risk
  • Gleason 8–10: High risk, aggressive, requires urgent action

Testing Centres Across Nigeria

Access to prostate cancer screening is improving. Here are recommended testing locations:

01

Lakeshore Cancer Centre

Nigeria's first facility solely dedicated to cancer prevention and treatment. Comprehensive prostate screening available.

Victoria Island, Lagos
02

SYNLAB Nigeria

Leading medical laboratory offering PSA testing. Multiple centres across Nigeria.

Multiple locations, nationwide
03

NSIA-LUTH Cancer Centre

State-of-the-art cancer treatment facility with comprehensive prostate screening and treatment.

Surulere, Lagos
04

National Hospital Abuja

Chemotherapy Access Partnership hospital offering subsidised cancer care.

Central Business District, Abuja
05

Primus Super Speciality Hospital

Multi-specialty hospital providing advanced prostate cancer screening and treatment.

Karimo, Abuja
06

Project Pink Blue

Non-profit offering free prostate cancer screenings and awareness programmes in various states.

Utako, Abuja
07

Lagoon Hospital

Leading healthcare provider offering prostate cancer screening and treatment options.

Apapa, Lagos
08

University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital

Leading teaching hospital with advanced cancer screening. Chemotherapy Access Partnership participant.

Enugu, Enugu State
09

Lagos State Government Free Screening Programme

Free prostate cancer awareness and screening programmes across Lagos LGAs.

Various LGAs, Lagos
10

Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital

Tertiary hospital known for specialised oncology services and prostate cancer treatment.

Nnewi, Anambra State