Six-time Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy recently announced that his cancer is terminal, prompting a nearly eight-fold increase in NHS searches for prostate cancer symptoms.
Most men aren’t aware of the signs of prostate cancer, according to a new survey conducted by Aviva for November’s Men’s Health Awareness Month. A quarter of men interviewed said they knew a couple of symptoms and a concerning one in five said that they didn’t know any of the symptoms.
Lack of awareness was highest in men aged 45 to 54 years – the age group in which cases of prostate cancer rose sharply.
Know the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among men worldwide. Early detection is critical to better outcomes. Prostate cancer often doesn’t show symptoms in the early stages, which makes screening even more crucial.
Urinary symptoms
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Painful or burning sensation during urination
- Feeling like your bladder never completely empties
Sexual dysfunction
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
- Painful ejaculation
- Blood in urine or semen
Noticing blood when you urinate or during ejaculation can be alarming. It may not always indicate cancer, but it should be checked immediately.
Pain and discomfort
- Persistent pain in the hips, lower back, thighs, or pelvic area can be a sign that the cancer has spread
- Unexplained bone pain or fractures may also indicate advanced prostate cancer
Understanding your risk factors
While any man can develop prostate cancer, certain factors increase the risk. Your risk significantly increases after age 50. Family history of prostate cancer is an important factor, and black men are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
In response to Chris Hoy’s news, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has ordered NHS England to review its guidance on testing for prostate cancer, specifically lowering the screening age. Currently, men can request a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test if they are over the age of 50.
“If you’ve got a family history of it like I have, if you’re over the age of 45, go and ask your doctor,” Hoy told the BBC.
If you’re experiencing the symptoms of prostate cancer, get in touch to organise a GP Appointment at Chelsea Medics. Our Well Man Medicals include PSA blood testing for patients 40 and above or younger if they have symptoms or strong family history. Call 0203 9555 444 or email [email protected] to book.