Prostate-Specific-Antigen “PSA” screening event

On 25 April 2026, the Highworth and Lechlade Lions jointly organised a Prostate-SpecificAntigen “PSA” screening event in partnership with the charity CHAPS and Healthcare Provider, Sirkka, with the aim of raising awareness of prostate cancer and encouraging early detection among local men. Held at the Highworth Community Centre, the event attracted an excellent response from across the surrounding communities, with 167 men attending to receive screening tests and valuable information about prostate health, risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of regular testing and early medical intervention. Throughout the day, volunteers and healthcare professionals worked to ensure that all participants felt supported and to learn more about a condition that often develops without obvious symptoms in its early stages.

Many attendees expressed appreciation for the chance to access screening services locally. The results of the screening programme were sobering and clearly demonstrated the importance of initiatives of this kind. Of those tested, 14.4% were found to have elevated PSA results that require further medical investigation. This figure is significantly higher than the national average of 8%, although a number of factors may have contributed to this, including age, ethnicity, lifestyle, environmental influences, and healthcare related factors.

Particularly concerning was the fact that 14 men, representing 11.4% of those with elevated results, were advised to seek immediate follow-up with their GP for urgent assessment and additional diagnostic tests. While many attendees were reassured by their results, the event highlighted the potentially life-saving value of early screening and the vital role that community partnerships can play in improving awareness, prevention, and the early diagnosis of serious health conditions.

Due to data protection, the Lions do not have access to specific cases however, if you were someone with an elevated PSA and are willing to share your experience either direct or anonymously then please email to: david@highworthlions.co.uk .It will help greatly if you state the area where you live and your wishes for the sharing of information.