A free prostate screening day is coming to St Neots on Saturday 5 September 2026.

For men in Peterborough and nearby towns, the first thing to know is that the published rules are based on age and risk, not where you live.

The event is at Eaton Socon Health Centre, 274 Great North Road, St Neots, PE19 8BB.

Men aged 50 to 80 can register. Men aged 45 to 80 can also register if they are Black or have a family history of prostate cancer.

The organisers’ published information does not limit applications to St Neots or Huntingdonshire residents.

That means Peterborough residents appear able to apply, although places are limited and registering interest does not guarantee an appointment.

Applicants are asked for their home address and GP details, and will be contacted if a slot is available.

So what happens at the check?

The screening is stated to include a PSA blood test and a digital rectal examination.

The PSA test looks at the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood.

The examination involves a clinician checking the prostate through the rectum.

You need to consent to the examination before it takes place.

Neither test can tell you on its own that you do, or do not, have prostate cancer.

PSA can be raised for reasons other than cancer, and some cancers do not produce a raised PSA.

That is why a result that needs checking is the start of a conversation, not a diagnosis.

Follow-up could include a repeat PSA test, a discussion with your GP, referral to urology, an MRI scan and, if doctors still need more information, a biopsy.

For someone registered with a Peterborough GP, the normal first step is to discuss the result with that GP, who can refer into the local NHS urology pathway where needed.

North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust provides services at Peterborough City Hospital.

There is one other bit people should not overlook: screening is for people without symptoms.

 If you have trouble passing urine, blood in your urine or semen, or other worrying changes, contact your GP rather than waiting for the September event.

The event is independently organised and promoted by Hunts Community Cancer Network and Lakeside St Neots.

The registration information refers to an NHS clinical team but does not name the provider delivering the checks. Appointment hours have not been published.

For Peterborough men, the practical decision is simple: check the age and risk rules, register in advance if you fit them, and be ready for the possibility that a result leads to more tests rather than instant reassurance.

Yes it's a bit of trip down the A1 to get there and you could probably expect the same thing to be organised in Peterborough soon but if you are worried and you can't wait to know if your affected this screening might be worth checking out.

If you are concerned at all or you think you could be in one of the high risk groups speak to your GP.

Have a question about prostate screening? Send it to our health editor.