04/03/2026
Prostate cancer awareness month
Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in men in the UK. The good news? Many people live long, healthy lives after treatment — especially when it’s found early. Knowing the facts helps you stay in control.
What is prostate cancer?
The prostate is a small gland below the bladder that helps make semen. Prostate cancer happens when cells in the prostate grow abnormally. Some cancers grow very slowly and may never cause harm. Others are faster growing and need treatment.
In the early stages, there are often no symptoms — which is why understanding your risk matters.
Who is most at risk?
Your risk is higher if you:
• Are aged 50 or over
• Have a father or brother with prostate cancer
• Are Black (Black men have a higher risk)
• Are very overweight
It can also affect trans women and non-binary people assigned male at birth.
Common signs to look out for:
Many people have no symptoms at first. When they do appear, they’re often urinary symptoms:
• Needing to p*e more often, especially at night
• Difficulty starting or a weak flow
• Feeling like your bladder hasn’t emptied properly
• (Less common) Blood in urine or semen
These symptoms are often caused by non-cancerous conditions — but always get them checked by your GP.
Checks and tests:
There’s no national screening programme in the UK, but you can request a PSA blood test from your GP — particularly if you’re over 50 or at higher risk.
If you have symptoms at any age, book an appointment. If PSA levels are raised, you may be referred for further tests such as an MRI scan or biopsy.
When to act:
• 50+: Talk to your GP about prostate health and PSA testing.
• Black men or those with family history: Consider starting conversations from 45.
• Any symptoms: Book a GP appointment promptly.
Reducing risk and staying well:
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, but you can support your overall health by:
• Staying active
• Eating a balanced diet
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding to***co and limiting alcohol
Prostate cancer is common — but when found early, it’s often very treatable. Knowing your risk, listening to your body, and speaking to your GP are simple but powerful steps to protect your health.
