A THREE-MINUTE test could help diagnose prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men in the UK, according to North-East scientists.

Researchers from Durham University have developed the test by using light energy to measure the level of citrate in fluid samples from the prostate gland.

The technique could provide the basis of a rapid means of detecting prostate cancer. Almost a quarter of male cancers in the UK are of the prostate, and more than 10,000 men die from the disease each year.

Scientists, led by Professor David Parker from Durham University’s chemistry department, have worked with experts from Maryland University in the US to develop the technique, which measures the wavelength of light as it is shone through diluted samples of body fluids.

The research was funded by the North-East Proof of Concept Fund and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.

Researchers believe the technique, which can measure, quickly and accurately, how citrate levels fall in the prostate gland as cancer develops, could also be of use in the diagnosis of other medical conditions associated with poor kidney function.

Prof Parker said: “Citrate provides a significant biomarker for disease that may provide a reliable method for screening and detecting prostate cancer, and for the monitoring of people with the disease.

“This technique could form the basis of a simple screening procedure for prostate cancer that could be used in outpatient departments at local hospitals.”

Professor Leslie Costello, of Maryland University, said: “Since citrate concentrations decrease markedly early in malignancy, this technique makes it possible to analyse what’s happening quickly in the early and treatable stage of prostate cancer.

“It shows much promise as a clinical tool.”

Using samples from male volunteers, the researchers have developed a portable instrument that can give results in three minutes.

Durham University has launched a company called FScan Ltd to develop the technique and to seek commercial backing. The team has looked at 20 samples so far. The next stage is to work with a local hospital and examine samples from 200 volunteers.