Men's Health
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Early detection matters
March is National Prostate Awareness Month in the UK.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK, with over 64,000 men diagnosed every year. It kills 1 man every hour, amounting to 12,000 deaths annually.
Why is early diagnosis difficult?
Early prostate cancer is difficult to diagnose because there are no symptoms until it becomes more advanced. Studies show that it is less likely for men under 50 to be diagnosed.
From the age of 50, anyone with a prostate can request a PSA test through their GP, a blood test that can be used to determine if you have elevated prostate specific antigen levels. A raised PSA level does not always mean cancer, but often it can indicate a prostate-related issue. (Prostate Cancer UK, 2026)
When prostate cancer becomes more advanced, there are more obvious symptoms. These include:
- Back pain, hip pain, or pelvis pain
- Problems getting or keeping an erection
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Unexplained weight loss
Prostate cancer generally grows slowly, but it’s important to ensure that you visit your GP if you suspect that you may have prostate cancer.
The risk of prostate cancer is higher in people with a family history of prostate cancer, and black men, so it’s important to have your PSA test done when eligible. (Heathcote Street Surgery, 2026)
National Screening Day
Book your PSA test at your GP today.
References
Heathcote Street Surgery, 2026. March is Prostate Awareness Month. [Online]
Available at: https://www.heathcotestreetsurgery.nhs.uk/march-is-prostate-cancer-awareness-month/
[Accessed 3rd March 2026].
Prostate Cancer UK, 2026. The PSA Blood Test. [Online]
Available at: https://prostatecanceruk.org/prostate-information-and-support/prostate-tests/psa-blood-test
[Accessed 3rd March 2026].
This article provides general information only and is not medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, please speak to a healthcare professional.
