Getting Tested

How to Get Tested

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

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

v. How to Prepare for a PSA Blood Test

For the most accurate result, follow these simple steps:

• Avoid ejaculation for 48 hours before the test
• Avoid vigorous exercise — especially cycling, heavy lifting, or gym workouts — for 48 hours before the test
• Do not have sex or prostate stimulation in the 48–72 hours before testing
• You can eat and drink normally — fasting is not required
• Try to get tested when you are feeling well, with no active infection

Tell your doctor if you:

• Recently had a urinary infection, prostate biopsy, or surgery
• Are taking medications like finasteride (Proscar) or dutasteride (Avodart)

vi. Where to Get Tested in Nigeria

Access to prostate cancer screening — especially PSA blood tests — is gradually improving. Below are reliable hospitals, labs, and organisations. Please call ahead to confirm services, costs, and appointments.

Lagos

Abuja

Enugu & South-East

Port Harcourt & South-South

Other Cities

vii. Health Insurance Options in Nigeria

Health insurance can make cancer care more affordable. Here's how to get started.

A. National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA)

• Dial *616# on any phone — the fastest route
• Website: enrollment.nhia.gov.ng
• Phone: +234 805 928 2008
• Email: info@nhia.gov.ng

B. Private Health Insurance (HMOs)

• AXA Mansard Health
• Reliance Health HMO
• United Healthcare International
• Leadway Health
• Bastion HMO

viii. Affordable Cancer Medicines (CHAI)

The Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) partners with the Nigerian government to provide lower-cost, high-quality cancer drugs — including for prostate cancer — through the Cancer Access Partnership.

Major Participating Hospitals

How to Access CHAI Medicines

Visit any of the hospitals above and ask your doctor:

More information: clintonhealthaccess.org/nigeria

ix. Additional Support Programmes

Nigeria Cancer Health Fund (CHF)

This fund provides financial support — up to ₦2 million (roughly $4,865) — for treatment, chemotherapy, and radiation for prostate, breast, and cervical cancer patients who cannot afford care.

Eligibility:

• Nigerian citizen
• Diagnosed with prostate cancer
• Considered indigent — low-income or unable to pay

How to access it:

1. Visit the oncology or cancer department of any participating public hospital — National Hospital Abuja, LUTH, UCH Ibadan, UNTH Enugu, and others
2. Get a confirmed diagnosis and a letter from the doctor
3. Your doctor or hospital social worker will help you apply through the official portal: nchf.emgeresources.com
4. Submit the required documents — medical report, proof of diagnosis, and a financial need assessment

National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT)

Nigeria's apex body for cancer research, policy, training, and the coordination of cancer control efforts.

What they offer:

• National cancer control coordination
• Cancer registries and data
• Training for healthcare workers
• Public awareness and prevention programmes
• Guidance on accessing treatment and support

How to contact NICRAT:

• Address: No. 9 Henry Adefope Crescent, Utako, Abuja
• Phone: +234 803 929 9899
• Website: nicrat.gov.ng
• Email: info@nicrat.gov.ng