Comprehensive Testing for Optimal Men's Health
At MansMatters, we believe that prevention and early detection are crucial elements of men’s healthcare. Our comprehensive range of tests and health checks combine cutting-edge technology with expert analysis to provide you with detailed insights into your health status. From advanced prostate screening to genetic testing, we offer some of the most sophisticated diagnostic services available in the UK. Using the latest medical innovations and testing protocols, we ensure you receive the most reliable results and appropriate guidance for your health journey.
The Leading-edge Prostate
Health Check
Our prostate health check includes a comprehensive blood test, designed to provide accurate results. The test is conducted in combination with other assessments at our clinic, with results typically available within one hour. This test is designed to help detect early signs of prostate issues, including potential indicators of prostate cancer, enabling timely intervention.
We are proud to offer the Proclarix and Stockholm 3 blood tests, which are carried out by our urology specialist, accompanied by personalised advice.
Do I need it?
Yes!
If you are a man aged 40 or older, it’s a good idea to consider regular prostate health checks. Early detection of potential prostate issues allows for timely intervention, helping to manage your health and wellbeing.
Why choose this test over other common PSA tests?
Traditional PSA tests can sometimes show elevated levels due to conditions such as age-related enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), infections, or prostatitis, which do not necessarily indicate prostate cancer. Additionally, some types of prostate cancer may not affect PSA levels.
Our test combines clinical data, PSA levels, protein markers, and genetic markers associated with prostate health, offering a more detailed and comprehensive approach to prostate cancer detection.
An accurate, fast indicator of cancer means:
- If the test suggests a low likelihood of cancer, it can provide reassurance and help you avoid the uncertainty of long hospital waiting lists. It may also reduce the need for further invasive procedures or imageing.
- If the test suggests a higher likelihood of cancer, early intervention can guide prompt further investigations, such as MRI scans or biopsies, which can assist in making informed decisions about your health.
What does the package entail?
- Bladder scan
- Uroflowmetry
- Digital Rectal Examination (optional)
- Proclarix/Stockholm 3/PSA blood test
- All tests are performed and include a medical consultation by a urology specialist.
In depth information on the prostate
The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland that plays a key role in male reproductive health.
It produces fluid that nourishes and transports sperm, and aids in the expulsion of semen during ejaculation. The prostate also contributes to regulating male hormones, including testosterone.
Issues with the prostate can lead to symptoms such as poor urinary control, incontinence, dribbling, and potentially prostate cancer. While prostate cancer can be fatal, early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and positive outcomes.
An abnormal prostate may result in raised PSA levels, which can indicate a variety of conditions, including prostate cancer. PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and a PSA test measures the level of this protein in the blood.
Here’s how it’s used:
- Detecting Cancer: High PSA levels might suggest cancer but can also be due to other prostate issues.
- Monitoring: Doctors use the test to see how cancer treatment is working and if the cancer comes back.
- Early Warning: Sometimes, a rise in PSA levels can alert doctors to cancer early on.
The PSA test, while commonly used, has limitations and may not always provide a definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer. Additional tests such as the Advanced Stockholm 3 test, physical exams, or biopsies may be needed for further clarity.
While the prostate plays a critical role in men’s health, prostate health care often receives less attention compared to other conditions. In the UK, men over 50 can discuss the PSA test with their NHS GP, based on personal risk factors and symptoms, though it’s not automatically offered to everyone.
It’s important to consider regular testing and consultation with a medical professional to better understand your prostate health.
How can MansMatters help?
At MansMatters, we specialise in men’s health and have pioneered the most comprehensive Prostate Test – The Ultimate Prostate Health Check, of any clinic in the UK. This on-the-day test checks the health of your prostate and provides you with a range of indicators and repeat testing, to further action including biopsies and MRI’s.
Results will be available within 1-2 weeks.
Cost: £1,200
Early detection can be crucial for improving health outcomes
Our tests are simple, rapid, highly accurate, and utilise the most advanced tests, providing faster results with detailed medical reports.
You will have a face-to-face consultation with a urology specialist who will explain and discuss the results. If the results are positive, a well-established medical pathway will be offered for prompt follow-up.
Bladder cancer test – EpiCheck
A highly accurate screening test, offering advanced bladder cancer detection and surveillance.
A simple, accurate, non-invasive urine test to aid in bladder cancer detection.
The issue
Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers in the Western world, with hundreds of people diagnosed each day. It is one of the few cancers where prognosis rates are declining. Various factors, including smoking and certain workplace exposures, may increase risk. A large percentage of cases are non-muscle invasive (NMIBC), confined to the bladder wall without spreading. When detected early, treatment options are available and effective in many cases.
Nevertheless, even when bladder cancer is identified early and treated appropriately, recurrence can occur in some cases. Recurrences may happen along the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, prostate, urethra, or bladder.
Regular monitoring post-treatment is recommended, typically involving cystoscopies. While effective, cystoscopies can be invasive and may carry some risks, including discomfort, infection, and bleeding. They may yield negative results in many cases, and can sometimes miss bladder cancer recurrences. There is a growing need for a non-invasive, reliable, and straightforward tool to detect and monitor non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
Developed by Nucleix, Bladder EpiCheck® provides a urine test for detecting early and recurrent bladder tumours. The test analyses changes in DNA methylation markers to help identify high-risk bladder cancers.
The test provides a positive or negative indication of bladder cancer presence. It has a high Negative Predictive Value (NPV), meaning a negative result accurately excludes bladder cancer in many cases, independent of human interpretation.
For early detection: Bladder EpiCheck® may be used for the early identification of bladder cancer and upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) in patients presenting with haematuria, other urinary tract symptoms, or suspicious findings. Patients with a positive test result may be advised to undergo cystoscopy for further evaluation.
Lung cancer screening
A highly validated blood test for the early detection of lung cancer.
WHAT IS THE EARLYCDT LUNG TEST?
EarlyCDT Lung is a highly validated blood test for detecting lung cancer. It can identify lung cancer earlier than standard clinical diagnosis, potentially up to several years in advance. This simple blood test detects circulating autoantibodies produced by the body’s immune system in response to lung cancer.
Lung cancer carries a high mortality rate and is one of the cancers with the poorest five-year survival rates. Its lethality is due to non-specific symptoms, which often result in patients seeking medical attention only once tumours have reached a critical size or metastasized to lymph nodes. However, when lung cancer is detected early, before symptoms appear, the chances of successful treatment can improve, with five-year survival rates reaching up to 90% in the earliest stages.
EarlyCDT serves two purposes:
The NHS has begun using CT scans as part of screening to detect lung nodules, which may then be biopsied to assess for malignancy. However, there are limitations in screening availability across the UK, and CT scans can result in Indeterminate Pulmonary Nodules (IPNs) for nodules measuring between 4-20mm, which may not be large enough for biopsy. Patients with IPNs are typically monitored with regular CT scans. If a nodule grows sufficiently for biopsy, early detection and treatment may still offer better outcomes
- Screening for lung cancer
- Assessment of IPNs to prioritise for biopsy
It requires only a small blood sample, obtainable at our clinic.
WHAT DO THE RESULTS INDICATE?
1. EarlyCDT informs you about the level of each tested antibody: whether it is low (insignificant level), moderate, or high. It then provides an overall assessment for all antibodies as Low, Moderate, or High.
2. This outcome is then combined with your pre-test risk score derived from a published risk-score model to compute your new Post-Test Risk of lung cancer.
3. Your test provider will communicate these findings to you. If you receive a high-risk result, it is recommended that you undergo a CT scan.
EarlyCDT boasts a Negative Predictive Value of 99.3%, meaning lung cancer is accurately ruled out in 99.3% of cases.
WHY CHOOSE EARLYCDT? – THE ECLS NHS TRIAL
The Early detection of Cancer of the Lung Scotland (ECLS) trial was conducted in Scotland by the NHS and involved 12,208 patients, making it the largest randomised controlled trial worldwide using blood biomarkers for lung cancer detection. Using EarlyCDT, 41.1% of cancers detected were at an early stage (1 or 2), compared to only 26.8% using standard clinical practice. This represents a 36% reduction in late-stage diagnoses, highlighting the test’s effectiveness in identifying lung cancers significantly earlier than conventional clinical methods.
Based on the trial results, it was estimated that testing 10,000 high-risk patients with EarlyCDT to triage for CT scans could save £964,280 and reduce the need for 9071 CT scans.
WHO IS EARLYCDT RECOMMENDED FOR?
- Individuals aged over 50 with a smoking history equivalent to 20 pack-years (equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes per day for one year).
- Individuals aged between 45-49 who are at heightened risk of lung cancer, such as smokers or ex-smokers, those exposed to secondhand smoke, individuals who have undergone radiation therapy, exposure to radon gas, exposure to asbestos or other carcinogens, and those with a family history of lung cancer.
HOW TO ACCESS EARLYCDT?
Through a private GP/urologist or urology specialist: You can obtain EarlyCDT by consulting a private GP or consultant. During your consultation, the consultant will review your clinical data, family history, and address any concerns you may have. They will take a blood sample and typically schedule a follow-up consultation to discuss the results. They can advise on additional monitoring or investigations.
DNA cancer genetic screening
A simple saliva sample is analysed to examine 31 genetic variants that may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. If any variants are detected, their implications and any recommended actions will be thoroughly explained during genetic counselling. Understanding your genetic predisposition to various cancers can help you make informed decisions about lifestyle and encourage regular check-ups, potentially aiding in the earlier detection of cancers. This information may also help your family make informed decisions regarding their health. The test is suitable for adults over 18, especially those with a family history of cancer.
WHAT IS HEREDITARY GENETIC TESTING FOR CANCER?
Our DNA consists of numerous genes, each serving different functions. Genes exist in various “versions” known as gene variants, contributing to individual differences such as appearance, abilities, and personalities. However, some gene variants increase the risk of diseases, including cancer. Certain variants affect the initial processes that lead to cell malignancy, impacting multiple types of cancer rather than specific tissues or organs. Other genes specifically elevate the risk of particular cancers; for instance, variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are closely linked to breast and ovarian cancer.
Having these variants does not guarantee cancer will develop; it indicates an inherited higher risk through DNA. Environmental factors also play a significant role in cancer risk, such as smoking, UV exposure, and contact with harmful chemicals. Conversely, factors like a balanced diet and exercise can reduce cancer risk. Overall, it’s estimated that 5-10% of cancers involve genetic variants contributing to susceptibility.
Hereditary cancer testing identifies these risk variants, informing individuals of their genetic predisposition to cancer. This knowledge empowers individuals to adapt their lifestyle and engage in a care pathway involving more frequent screening, enhancing the chances of early cancer detection if it arises.
WHO SHOULD UNDERGO HEREDITARY CANCER TESTING?
A genetic basis for cancer is suspected when certain traits or recurring cancer occurrences are observed within a family. These traits include:
- Early onset of cancer
- Multiple primary tumours
- Tumours in multiple sites
- Bilateral tumours in paired organs
- Same type of tumour among relatives
- Rare types of tumours
- Tumours associated with congenital defects
Having any of these cancer features in your immediate or extended family suggests the possibility of inheriting genetic variants that increase cancer risk. Undergoing a genetic test allows you to identify these risk variants and make informed decisions regarding lifestyle changes and screening. If your test indicates an elevated risk, you may consider encourageing family members to undergo testing as well.
However, genetic mutations can also occur randomly during reproduction, resulting in a risk variant even if your parents do not carry it. Additionally, you may have inherited a risk variant from your parents even if they did not develop cancer themselves. Therefore, we offer hereditary cancer testing to individuals aged 18 and above, regardless of personal or family cancer history.
WHAT HEREDITARY TESTING DO WE OFFER?
- Comprehensive Hereditary Cancer Testing Panel (31 genes)
- Hereditary Breast Cancer Panel
- Hereditary Breast and Gynaecological Cancer Panel
- Hereditary Prostate Cancer Panel
- Hereditary Colorectal Cancer (Colon cancer, including Lynch syndrome) Panel
- Hereditary Melanoma Cancer (Skin cancer) Panel
- Hereditary Pancreatic Cancer Panel
You will be offered a consultation with a genetic counsellor following your hereditary cancer test, who will be able to fully explain the results and implications.
WHAT DO THE RESULTS MEAN?
The report issued will detail all actionable findings from the hereditary cancer panel. If a genetic variant is detected, the report will outline its impact, implications, and recommended actions, which will be thoroughly explained to patients during genetic counselling. Our genetic counsellor will also discuss the health implications for patients and their families.
If no clinically significant variant is identified, the report will explicitly state this.
Prostate Cancer Blood Test
Highly accurate testing using PROCLARIX or STOCKHOLM 3 TEST
Our Urology specialist will review your clinical data and family history, addressing any concerns you may have. A blood sample will be taken, and a follow-up consultation will typically be arranged to discuss the results. They will provide guidance on any further monitoring or investigations, if necessary.
HOW DOES PROCLARIX WORK?
Next-generation screening
Proclarix, developed by Proteomedix, is a simple blood test that analyses protein biomarkers to assess the risk of aggressive prostate cancer in individuals with a PSA level between 2 and 10 ng/nL. This range is known as the “grey area,” where elevated PSA levels may or may not indicate prostate cancer. Moreover, having a PSA within these “normal” ranges does not definitively rule out prostate cancer, which can be confusing and concerning for many men. Proclarix provides clarity in these ambiguous PSA results by offering a more precise and specific risk score for aggressive prostate cancer. A high-risk Proclarix score suggests the need for further investigation, typically an MRI scan. A low-risk score excludes prostate cancer with 95% accuracy. Proclarix can replace standard PSA testing without additional procedures, with results available within 5-7 working days.
Addressing indeterminate MRIs
Proclarix can also be utilised following an MRI scan if the results are inconclusive. MRI scans are employed in men with elevated PSA levels to detect prostate masses indicative of cancer. Subsequently, a prostate biopsy is performed to confirm the presence of a cancerous tumour. However, approximately 40% of MRI scans yield indeterminate results, where the presence of abnormality in the prostate remains uncertain. Without Proclarix, these individuals would undergo biopsies, resulting in over 50% of biopsies being negative or clinically insignificant. This overdiagnosis and overtreatment can be mitigated by using Proclarix after indeterminate MRI scans. The blood test helps clinicians determine whether a biopsy is necessary based on more accurate risk assessment.
HOW DOES STOCKHOLM3 WORK?
Stockholm3 is a blood test designed for the early detection of prostate cancer. It assesses the levels of 5 protein markers and examines the presence of multiple genetic markers. The result is a risk score indicating the likelihood of prostate cancer that may spread. Elevated risk suggests referral to a urologist for further evaluation, whereas low or normal risk indicates a follow-up test within two to six years.
Since 2019, Stockholm3 has been integrated into clinical practice in Sweden, Norway, and Finland. It is endorsed by European and American prostate cancer guidelines and has been evaluated in trials involving over 75,000 men. Several major healthcare providers across Europe utilise Stockholm3.
Early detection is crucial for effectively identifying prostate cancer. Evidence shows that 30-50% of aggressive prostate cancers are detected in men with normal PSA results (below 3 ng/ml). Stockholm3 offers significant advantages over PSA testing:
- Stockholm3 identifies high-risk individuals with normal PSA results.
- Stockholm3 detects twice as many men with aggressive prostate cancer requiring treatment compared to routine PSA tests.
“Stockholm3 reduces over-detection and unnecessary procedures/anxiety.” It is important to note that many men have benign prostate tumours that do not pose a threat during their lifetime. Using Stockholm3 prior to MRI helps minimise over-detection by identifying men at low risk of harmful prostate cancer, even with elevated PSA levels. For many men, this means avoiding unnecessary and uncomfortable procedures like prostate biopsy, along with the associated stress and wait for results. Stockholm3 has been shown to halve the number of unnecessary biopsies compared to routine PSA testing in clinical settings.
“Based on evidence from large-scale scientific studies.” Developed by researchers at the Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm3 has been extensively evaluated and validated in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Germany, and Switzerland, involving over 75,000 participants. A recent comprehensive validation study was conducted in the USA. Over 45 scientific articles on Stockholm3 have been published in esteemed journals such as The Lancet Oncology and European Urology. Stockholm3 has received consecutive awards for its research from the European Association of Urology (EAU) in 2021, 2022, and 2023. The latest study published in The Lancet Oncology was honoured with the EAU Prostate Cancer Research Award 2022. More information on Stockholm3 publications can be found here.
WHAT DO THE RESULTS INDICATE?
The Stockholm3 test provides a risk score that categorises the likelihood of aggressive prostate cancer into elevated risk, normal risk, or low risk. It also includes clear treatment recommendations, facilitating decision-making for the treating doctor regarding potential further actions. If the risk is elevated, referral to a urologist for additional evaluation is advised, while men classified as having low or normal risk are recommended to undergo a repeat test within two to six years. Nearly half of men aged 50 to 70 years exhibit a low-risk profile and may defer testing for up to six years.
The target demographic for Stockholm3 comprises men aged between 45 and 74 years.
Bladder scan & flow test
Many men notice changes in their urinary habits, such as longer time to pass urine, feeling that they haven’t fully emptied their bladder, or needing to visit the lavatory more frequently, especially at night. Some may also experience discomfort. While these symptoms are often ignored, they can indicate an underlying condition that may benefit from medical attention. A Urology specialist at MansMatters can carry out simple tests to help identify the cause of these issues and recommend appropriate treatments.
Bladder Scan
The first non-invasive test we undertake is a bladder scan. This scan assesses the amount of urine that is left in the bladder after a gentleman has paid a visit to the toilet. An ultrasound device is placed on the lower abdomen over the bladder area. The soundwaves of the ultrasound bounce off the bladder wall and the machine generates live pictures of the bladder, which you can see in real time with the amount and volume of urine within it.
The bladder scan can be a signpost to various medical concerns including urinary obstructions, bladder muscle dysfunction or a neurogenic bladder. It can also be an indication of abnormalities in the bladder both in shape and size.
Uroflowmetry
In addition to the bladder scan, MansMatters performs uroflowmetry tests, which involve the patient urinating into a device that measures the rate of urinary flow. This test provides valuable information about the health and function of the urinary tract, particularly the urethra (the tube connecting the bladder to the outside of the body) and the bladder, where urine is stored.
Prepare before the test
Before the test, you will be instructed to drink a good quantity of water and to hold back on urinating for some time. You will then be asked to urinate in the privacy of restrooms into the uroflowmetry. This records several different factors which are plotted out on a graph and explained by the Urology specialist who will recommend a course of action.
Blood tests
MansMatters are experts in providing specialist blood tests for men’s health.
That’s not to say we ignore the ladies and many partners choose to undergo our tests as well, but our focus is providing optimal testing for men, to act both as an early warning signal of future health problems as well as providing the most accurate results for medical problems when they exist.
What makes our blood tests different?
Many clinics offer standard blood tests using basic biomarkers.
While these tests can provide some insights, they are not always precise and may not give a full picture of a person’s health.
For example, the PSA test, commonly used for prostate cancer screening, has limitations and may not always provide reliable readings.
At MansMatters, we offer advanced testing options, including Stockholm 3 and Ploclarix, which provide more comprehensive insights. These tests have shown strong success rates in identifying potential issues, supporting more accurate health assessments.
What do you test?
We offer specialist blood tests across all areas of a man’s health. Examples below include:
- Anaemia (iron deficiency): Ensuring adequate iron levels is crucial for overall vitality.
- Blood cell health: Early detection can help guide prompt medical intervention.
- Bone health: Monitoring bone health is essential for preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
- Cholesterol levels (potential artery plaque blockage): Keeping an eye on cholesterol levels can help prevent cardiovascular issues.
- Clotting function: Detecting clotting issues early can be lifesaving.
- Diabetes: Continuous monitoring helps manage blood sugar levels effectively.
- Electrolyte levels: Maintaining the right balance of electrolytes is essential for various bodily functions.
- Inflammatory markers: Identifying inflammation can signal underlying health concerns.
- Gout: Early detection can aid in managing this painful condition.
- Heart health: Regular blood tests can reveal factors that affect heart health.
- Immune health: Detecting immune system irregularities is crucial for overall well-being.
- Infection: Blood tests can help diagnose infections for better management.
- Kidney function: Early detection is vital for preserving kidney function.
- Liver function: Monitoring liver health is essential for overall well-being.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Identifying deficiencies in nutrients like magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin B6, or B12 can guide dietary adjustments.
- Male profile hormone levels: Detecting hormonal levels can explain symptoms like low mood, low energy, low libido, and erectile dysfunction.
- Thyroid function: Monitoring thyroid function helps regulate mood, energy levels, and overall metabolism.
How do blood tests combine with your Medical DNA tests?
Blood tests complement Medical DNA testing, and many clients opt for both, or choose the Advanced Prostate Health Check or Annual Male Health Check.
Our medical DNA test focuses on genetic biomarkers, assessing over 300 different indicators from your genes and epigenetics. Unlike heritage DNA tests, it provides insights into your health potential. This test is particularly valuable for those who want to monitor their health proactively. It can help identify genetic predispositions and areas for improvement in your health:
- Potential risks for conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cataracts
- Your risk of injury may increase, along with intolerances such as dairy or gluten
- Deficiencies in specific minerals and vitamins can be identified, potentially reducing the need for general multivitamins
- Your body’s response to mental well-being and stress
Why should I undertake these tests?
While DNA tests provide insights into your genetic predispositions, blood tests offer real-time data about your current bodily state.
Regular blood tests can be helpful for fine-tuning your dietary and exercise plans by measuring various crucial parameters.
How much do these costs:
Our blood tests start from £150.
Annual men’s health check
Covering all elements of men’s health in one test
What is the annual men’s health check?
Think of it as an MOT. At your annual men’s health check, you can discuss any concerns you have about your men’s health and lifestyle with a urology specialist and undergo thorough screening.
Why do I need it?
Our Men’s Health Check is designed to evaluate your overall health and identify any potential concerns. As specialists in men’s sexual health, we include a thorough evaluation of this aspect as part of the check. If you are 40 years or older, an annual health check should be as routine as an annual visit to the dentist.
What does an annual Male Health Check involve?
An Annual Men’s health check involves a number of assessments including:
- Identifying any medically significant changes, including penile weakness and deformities.
- Prostate assessment Includes advanced testing, such as the Stockholm Three
- Comprehensive blood tests.
- Full bladder scanning to identify if there have been any changes in your bladder health.
- Uroflowmetry flow test to assess whether your waterworks are in good health.
- Digital Rectal examination to determine changes to the prostate (optional).
- Assesses thyroid function to detect underactive or overactive thyroid, enabling early treatment.
- Cardiac Health assessment to determine your risk of heart disease.
- Vitamin deficiency. Your Vitamin levels will be examined to detect any deficiencies and address them accordingly.
- Hepatic and renal function screening to detect any signs of liver and kidney disease.
- Blood pressure assessment to ensure that it falls within the appropriate range.
- Anaemia Screening to test for indicators of anaemia, which can cause fatigue.
- Diabetes screening. You will be evaluated for pre-diabetes, type 2 and type 1 diabetes.
- Bone health assessment to assess calcium levels and the condition of your bones and teeth.
- Testosterone levels to check they are in the optimal range.
How long does this assessment last?
All test is conducted within the space of an hour. You will then receive a report within a week.
How much does an Annual Men’s Health Test cost?
The cost of all the tests with consultations is £1,200.
What is Medical DNA?
Medical DNA refers to a clinical test that analyses over 300 DNA markers from your genes and epigenetics to assess:
- Your genetic predisposition to certain health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and high blood pressure.
- Your genetic risk factors for traits like gluten sensitivity, skin ageing, and injury susceptibility.
- Potential nutrient deficiencies or imbalances based on your genetic makeup.
- Your genetic response to stress and factors influencing mental well-being.
This test is distinct from heritage DNA testing, as it focuses specifically on your health-related genetic information.
Why do I need a Medical DNA test?
Knowledge is power.
Understanding your DNA can help you make informed decisions about your health. By identifying genetic predispositions, you can better manage existing health conditions, take proactive steps to reduce the risk of certain diseases, and optimise your overall health and well-being.
The earlier you understand your genetic makeup, the more empowered you are to manage your health and improve your quality of life.
How can I do it?
Our medical consultant will guide you through the process, explaining each step. A saliva sample will be taken, and we will outline the specific aspects we are analysing. After a few weeks, you will receive a detailed report with the results.
The report will include information on the genes of interest, the factors being examined, the findings, and recommendations based on the results, along with references to relevant research.
Examples of areas of interest in Medical DNA
- Injury Risk – Understanding your genetic predisposition to issues like knee injuries, Achilles tendon concerns, or lower back problems can help you make informed choices about exercises that are better suited to your body, supporting injury prevention and overall well-being
- Gut Health – Understanding your genetic predisposition to gluten intolerance, gut sensitivity, and stress-related digestive issues can help you make informed dietary choices to support digestive comfort.
- Immunity – Understanding your genetic predisposition to immune function, susceptibility to colds and flu, and stress-related physical symptoms can help you make informed choices to reduce risk by practising good hygiene and stress management.
- Eye Health – Understanding your genetic predisposition to conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or age-related vision changes can help you make informed choices to support your eye health
- Heart Health – Understanding your genetic predisposition to factors like high blood pressure, salt sensitivity, and cardiovascular health can help you make informed choices to support your heart health.
- Skin Health – Understanding your genetic predisposition to sun sensitivity, skin ageing, and wrinkle formation can help you make informed choices, like managing sun exposure.
- Mental Health – Understanding your genetic predisposition to factors like memory, attention span, and cognitive abilities can help you make informed choices to support brain health.
- Diet – Understanding your genetic predisposition to factors like vitamin deficiencies, nutrient imbalances, metabolism, and how your body responds to foods like carbohydrates and proteins can help you make informed choices to manage your health and optimise well-being.
In depth information on DNA
Your DNA is present in every cell of your body, carrying thousands of genes inherited from your ancestors. Each gene “expresses” itself, similar to following a recipe in a kitchen. Think of DNA as a cookbook, where each gene is a specific recipe that the cell reads to produce what it needs, such as proteins. This process helps cells perform essential functions, from growth to supporting digestion.
The human genome has been mapped, allowing us to better understand the role of each gene. DNA serves as the instruction manual for building and maintaining your body.
Genes are specific sections of DNA, like individual instructions in this manual, each determining how different aspects of your body are formed. For instance, some genes influence traits like hair colour, while others play a role in immune function.
Gene expression involves the cell reading a gene’s instructions to create a messenger molecule (mRNA), which carries the instructions to the area where proteins are made. The cell then produces proteins based on these instructions, which could range from components influencing eye colour to enzymes that help with digestion. This process regulates when, where, and how much of each protein is made, affecting both how your body functions and how you look.
Bladder Screening Tests
Our bladder screening tests are simple, rapid, highly accurate, and utilise the most advanced methods. providing faster results with detailed medical reports.
You will have a face-to-face consultation with a urology specialist who will explain and discuss your results. If the results are positive, a well-established medical pathway will be offered for prompt follow-up.
Bladder cancer test . EpiCheck.
This is one of the most accurate screening tests in the world. A simple, non-invasive urine test enabling bladder cancer detection and observation.
Bladder cancer ranks as the 5th most common cancer in the Western world. However, it is the sole top 10 cancer where prognosis rates are deteriorating. So, if you notice changes in your urine, including blood, tissue fragments or pain, you should immediately take this simple test. Bladder cancer is also something that can reoccur, so it is important to regularly retest. The traditional method of detection was through cystoscopies where a specialist examined the lining of your bladder. This is invasive, causes discomfort and carries the risk of infection. retention, dysuria and bleeding. It is also not as accurate as the EpiCheck.
Developed by Nucleix, Bladder EpiCheck® offers patients and clinicians a straightforward one the day, urine test for detecting early and recurrent bladder tumours. The test analyses subtle disease-specific changes in DNA methylation markers, enabling the identification of high-risk (non Ta-LG) cancers.
Lung Cancer Screening
Our lung screening tests are the world’s most thoroughly validated blood test for the early detection of lung cancer.
They are quick, accurate, and conducted using state-of-the-art method, providing detailed results and comprehensive medical reports.
Following the results of the test, you’ll have a face-to-face consultation with a specialist who will explain your results. If the outcome is positive, you’ll be guided through a well-established medical pathway to ensure timely and appropriate follow-up care.
WHAT IS THE EARLYCDT LUNG TEST?
EarlyCDT Lung is the most rigorously validated blood test globally for detecting lung cancer. It identifies lung cancer an average of four years, and up to nine years, before standard clinical diagnosis. This simple blood test detects seven circulating autoantibodies produced by the body’s immune system as an initial defence against lung cancer.
Lung cancer carries the highest mortality rate and is among the cancers with the poorest five-year survival rates. Its lethality stems from non-specific symptoms, often leading patients to seek medical attention only after tumours have reached a critical size or metastasized to lymph nodes. However, when lung cancer is detected early, before symptoms manifest, the prospects for successful curative treatment are favourable — with average five-year survival rates reaching up to 90% at the earliest stage.
WHO IS EARLYCDT RECOMMENDED FOR?
- Individuals aged over 50 with a smoking history equivalent to 20 pack-years (equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes per day for one year).
- Individuals aged between 45-49 who are at heightened risk of lung cancer, such as smokers or ex-smokers, those exposed to secondhand smoke, individuals who have undergone radiation therapy, exposure to radon gas, exposure to asbestos or other carcinogens, and those with a family history of lung cancer.
Loss of Libido and low Testosterone
The loss of libido and low testosterone are two different conditions but can be related.
Low Testosterone is a biological condition, whilst low libido, a decrease in sexual desire, may or may not be related to low testosterone. A man can have a low libido, without low testosterone, for example due to work stress or relationship issues. Whereas some men have low testosterone and still have a good sex drive. MansMatters have established treatment protocols for both conditions.
Symptoms of low testosterone include:
- l ow sex drive
- Erectile difficulties
- Fatigue and low energy
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Increased body fat
- Mood changes
- Brain fog and lack of focus
- Poor sleep
- Lack of morning erections.
If you suffer any of these symptoms then MansMatters can check you with a specialist men’s health blood test, where we will assess:
- Your overall testosterone levels
- Free testosterone (the testosterone available for your body to use).
- Oestrogen and Cortisol levels
- SHBG (Sex Hormone and Binding Globulin)
- DHEA and other key markers.
Symptoms of Low Libido include:
- Poor blood circulation
- Hormonal imbalances (low testosterone, high estrogenic and high cortisol)
- Stress and anxiety
- Lifestyle and poor sleep
If you suffer a low libido, we can undertake men’s health blood tests to check:
- Testosterone, estrogenic and cortisol levels
- Other key markers
We can provide medical advice and tailored plans to naturally optimise your hormones and nutritional and supplement guidance to boost testosterone safely.
Many patients who come to us with symptoms of low testosterone or a decrease libido following blood tests, will undertake a number of enhanced treatments to improve their overall blood flow and sexual performance. These include
Focused shockwave therapy.
As low testosterone is often related to poor blood circulation, focused shockwave therapy treatment will create new blood vessels, rejuvenates existing blood vessels and breaks down micro plaque enabling stronger and longer lasting erections.
Nesa Technology.
Stress and anxiety increase cortisol levels, which suppresses testosterone and are also instrumental in a low libido. Our cutting-edge Nesa Technology reduces stress and anxiety, improves sleep quality and enhances energy and focus.
Lifestyle and Nutritional support.
Testosterone production influences by diet, exercise and sleep. A poor diet can also negatively affect a low libido. We provide a combination of exercise programmes, with nutritional advice and sleep optimisation plans.
Let's Start Your Journey
to Better Health
Take the first step towards addressing your concerns with complete discretion. Choose between a free
20-minute phone consultation with our medical advisor or visit us for a thorough in-clinic assessment.