Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer starts in the prostate, a gland in the male reproductive system.

In the UK, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men,with more than 47,500 men diagnosed every year.

Types of prostate cancer

Acinar adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma is a type of prostate cancer that develops in the cells that line the prostate gland.

Ductal adenocarcinoma

Ductal adenocarcinoma cancer starts in the cells that line the ducts of the prostate gland and tend to grow quickly.

Transitional cell (or urothelial) cancer

This type of prostate cancer usually starts in the bladder and spreads into the prostate.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma develops from flat cells that cover the prostate and can spread quickly.

Small cell prostate cancer

This is a type of cancer affecting the nerves and small, round cells.

Other rare prostate cancers

Carcinoid is a tumour that develops when nerve cells start to grow out of control. Sarcoma is a cancer that develops from the soft tissue.

How we help you

HCA Healthcare UK is committed to giving you the most advanced, personalised cancer treatment and care. Our cancer care network is spread across the UK. This includes our own private hospitals, private units within leading NHS hospitals and dedicated chemotherapy and radiotherapy centres. We offer patients rapid access to our prostate screening service, where any potential problems can be detected, diagnosed and treated at an early stage by working with a team of healthcare professionals, each with their own area of expertise.

When it comes to treatment, we partner with world-renowned cancer research institute, Sarah Cannon Research Institute UK. This gives you access to more treatment options including new and emerging drugs. We’re the only private provider to cover the entire patient pathway seamlessly, from diagnosis and treatment, through to clinical trials, survivorship and aftercare.

What is prostate cancer?

Watch our video and find out more about prostate cancer and how it is diagnosed.

Facing prostate cancer together

  • Symptoms icon plus

    Common prostate cancer symptoms can include:

    • passing urine more frequently than usual, especially at night
    • needing to rush to the toilet to pass urine
    • the feeling of not completely emptying your bladder
    • straining or taking a long time while urinating
  • Screening and diagnosis icon plus

    If you notice one or more of the above symptoms, or have a family history of prostate cancer, we can provide you with an initial screen or further diagnostic tests such as:

    • medical examinations
    • blood tests
    • scans
    • biopsies
    • genetic testing

    If prostate cancer is diagnosed, we will provide personalised cancer care with rapid access to the latest technology and treatments. For patients wanting to explore a second opinion we offer access to leading consultants in all cancer specialties.

  • Treatment icon plus

    We work together to create the right treatment for you. We discuss options such as:

    • surgery
    • chemotherapy
    • radiotherapy
    • clinical trials
    • immunotherapy
    • other types of anti-cancer therapies
  • Supportive care icon plus

    Your physical and emotional wellbeing is important to us. We provide a range of supportive therapies designed to help prevent, alleviate or manage the effects of prostate cancer and the treatments we provide. These include:

    • complementary therapies such as massage and reiki
    • dietetic support
    • symptom control
    • physiotherapy
    • psychological support for you and your family
  • Living with and beyond cancer icon plus

    We know that after cancer treatment, you may need help getting back to normal life – so we offer expert advice and support. We run dedicated programmes focused on physical, psychological and practical concerns that may arise from a diagnosis of cancer and associated treatment.

Our cancer care consultants

Under our care, you'll be looked after by a consultant who specialises in cancer, someone who is dedicated to your health and wellbeing.


Each consultant is supported by a team of specialists, including radiologists, radiographers and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs). 

Our locations

From complex cancer surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional cancer care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Book an appointment

Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

Call us today

020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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