Prostate cancer imaging developed by university researchers has shown “extremely encouraging” results in its first clinical trials. A team at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, leading the clinical trial said recent testing at the Western General Hospital has shown promising results in screening for the disease.

The new test has demonstrated an initial 94% sensitivity rate in tumour detection and the test is delivered in under 20 minutes.

Researchers say they have been encouraged by trials of a new process to detect prostate cancer in men. It is hoped that the approach, developed at Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh, could lead to quicker diagnosis and earlier preventative treatment.