Scan-in-a-van prostate cancer screening at UCL East

The LIMIT trial, run by Cancer Research UK and led by Professor Shonit Punwani (UCL Division of Medicine), is looking at a new way to diagnose prostate cancer in its early stages. 

Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men in the UK. Some non-binary people and trans women will also get prostate cancer at some point in their lives.  

At the moment, most prostate cancers are detected via an MRI scan, but as there is no test to pick up the disease early, patients are often diagnosed when the cancer is in its later stages and more difficult to treat. 

Researchers would like to increase the number of men diagnosed with early stage prostate cancer, before they have symptoms. Because the cancer is small at this stage and has not spread, treatment is more likely to be successful. To try and do this, they are looking at a new kind of scan called an L-MRI, which will be available in a mobile scanning unit on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on 4-6 July. 

Who are we looking for? 
Why are Black men, in particular, being encouraged to take part? 
What's involved? 
How can I take part? 
What happens afterwards?
More information

Who are we looking for? 

You may be able to join this trial if all of the following apply: 

• you are male and aged between 50-75 

• you have not been diagnosed with prostate cancer before 

• you have not had treatment for prostate cancer before 

• able to give written informed consent 

 You cannot join this study if you are not able to have an MRI scan. This might be because: 

• you have metal in a part of your body 

• you have a pacemaker 

• you have inner ear implants 

• you have found it difficult in confined spaces in the past (claustrophobia) 

• you are unable to consent  

You also cannot join this study if you have already been diagnosed with prostate cancer or have a history of prostate cancer.  

Why are Black men, in particular, being encouraged to take part? 

Black men are twice as likely to get prostate cancer but less likely to come forward for screening. This means they are less likely to be diagnosed early, reducing the success of treatment.  

What’s involved? 

A PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, an MRI scan which takes about 20 minutes, and you will also need to answer a questionnaire. 

The whole process should take no longer than 90 minutes. If you are uncomfortable at any point during the trial and wish to stop, you can ask the team at any time. 
 
For the MRI scan, you will be asked to remove all metallic items e.g. jewelry, belts 

How can I take part? 

The scans will be taking place at: 

• Date: 4-6 July 

• Time: 10am - 4pm

• Location: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, next to the bridge between UCL East Marshgate and the London Stadium.

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Whilst drop in appointments may be possible, it is best to call ahead and book to avoid disappointment. Call the team on 07876 216449 to book your slot.

What happens afterwards? 

If your result is negative, no problem! Just remember to get screened again in the future. Ask at the appointment for your recommended scan frequency based on your risk factors.  
 
If your result is positive, the team will be able to refer you to care at University College Hospital or they can contact your GP so that you can be referred to your local hospital.  

More information 

You can find more information about this trial on the Cancer Research UK website. Or call the team on 07876 216449 with questions, concerns or for more van dates and locations.