New data has revealed that prostate cancer is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK. The charity Prostate Cancer UK analysed the latest data revealed by NHS England, and it shows that in 2023, 55,033 men received a prostate cancer diagnosis, up from 50,751 cases in 2022 and representing a nine percent rise.
This means that prostate cancer has now overtaken breast cancer as the most commonly diagnosed cancer in England.
Awareness campaigns are driving rise in diagnoses
Part of the rise in diagnosis can be explained by campaigns aimed at raising awareness of the condition, and high-profile cases in recent years, including King Charles and Sir Chris Hoy.
Speaking to the Guardian, Prof Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: “Thanks to the hard work of NHS staff and effective awareness campaigns, we are diagnosing more men with prostate cancer at an earlier stage than ever before, so they have the best possible chance of receiving effective treatment.”
“We know that coming forward for prostate checks can be daunting, but it could save your life, so we would encourage men to consult the prostate cancer symptoms advice available on NHS.uk, and to see their GP as soon as possible if they are concerned.”
However, there are likely to be many more living with prostate cancer who are unaware that they have the condition. This is because the symptoms often develop silently, and do not become apparent until the prostate has become large enough to interfere with bladder function.
Can prostate cancer affect sexual function?
One of most frequently asked questions for men with prostate cancer is regarding sexual and reproductive health, because the prostate gland plays a crucial role in this. The nerves that are responsible for controlling sexual response and erections can also become damaged during prostate cancer treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy.
Some men find after completing a course of prostate cancer treatment, they experience erectile dysfunction (ED). This can impact relationships, and even be a source of anxiety and depression. The good news is that there are ways to manage the condition.
How to manage ED after prostate cancer treatment
The first step is to discuss your concerns with a member of your healthcare team. Do not be put off by any feelings of discomfort, because it’s a very common problem and medical professionals are trained how to deal with it. The first line of treatment is usually a PDE5 inhibitor such as Viagra (cheap to buy online as sildenafil).
These medications work by helping the blood vessels that supply the penis to relax, increasing the flow of blood and making it easier to get and maintain an erection. If there has been severe nerve damage, PDE5 inhibitors may not be the most appropriate form of treatment.
In this case, it may be possible to use vacuum devices, or explore emerging treatments such as low intensity shockwave therapy, implants or injections.
Managing lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet, taking regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and managing stress levels can also support good sexual function.
Know your testing options
The government is currently consulting on a Men’s Health Strategy for the UK, which may update the current guidance on prostate cancer screening. At the moment, there is no national screening strategy in place, and men are urged to ask for a PSA blood test if they are in a high risk group.
This includes men over the age of 50; men with a family history of prostate cancer; and black men.
Chiara De Biase, director of health services, equity & improvement at Prostate Cancer UK, told The Guardian: “These new figures show that awareness is now growing across the UK, and we’re proud to have played our part in this alongside our supporters and the NHS.”
“More men than ever are learning about their risk, speaking to their GP about the PSA blood test, and then taking the best next steps. Men who have concerns can also take Prostate Cancer UK’s quick online risk checker.
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