A “ban” on a NHS rule could be leaving millions of men at risk of death. Men at a high risk of prostate cancer can get a test – but only if they request one – charity Prostate Cancer UK has warned – in an urgent alert for men up and down the country.
The guidance has been slammed as “outdated”. Chiara De Biase, director of health services, equity and improvement at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “We simply can’t continue with a system where men at high risk of prostate cancer can get a test but only if they know to request one.
“This outdated guidance is failing both men and their clinicians, making health inequalities worse and putting lives at risk. It’s about time that changed. She added: ” She added: “We know that a lot of men don’t come forward because they think they’ll be invited as part of routine tests when this simply isn’t true.
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“The long-term answer is a screening programme for all men, and the results of our TRANSFORM trial will tell us the most effective way to do that. Until then, we all need to work together to make sure men know their risk and what they can do about it.”
“We’re doing all we can to raise awareness, and now we’re asking for the next Government to do its part by giving doctors the power to proactively reach out to men at highest risk.” Symptoms of prostate cancer do not usually appear until the prostate is large enough to affect the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the penis (urethra).
The NHS explains: “The causes of prostate cancer are largely unknown. But certain things can increase your risk of developing the condition. The chances of developing prostate cancer increase as you get older. Most cases develop in men aged 50 or older.”
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
