We were devastated to read the news that Sir Chris Hoy has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, and of course everyone at the Prostate Project would like to add our very best wishes to the great many messages of support that he has already received.

We have paid tribute to the bravery of Sir Chris and his family for their decision to share their story, particularly as the sad fact is that high profile cases, such as this, shed light on the importance for men to take responsibility, and ‘Get Tested’.

It remains imperative for men over the age of 50 (or over 45 if black or with a family history), continue to ask for, and receive a PSA blood test, and we are concerned that a few recent reports in the media have suggested that the PSA blood test is not completely reliable as an indication of prostate cancer, and that these reports might put some men off getting a test.

While we all understand that the PSA blood test is not quite perfect, it has saved, and continues to save thousands of lives every year.  We consulted Prostate Project Patron, Professor Stephen Langley, Director of Cancer Services at Royal Surrey Hospital, and Matthew Perry, Clinical Director for Urology at Royal Surrey Hospital to provide some detail.

• Despite its criticisms the PSA test is the first line of defence in potentially combatting prostate cancer. It success in reducing death from prostate cancer by 20-35 % (data from European Randomised study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC) and Goteborg Prostate screening study has led to the EU adopting PSA screening for prostate cancer in September last year amongst its member states.

• As we know early diagnosis is key to combating the disease.

• The advent of any MRI national screening program is a long way off and of course needs to be economically viable. PSA targeting followed by MRI if necessary, is a sensible first step in detecting men with prostate cancer at an early stage, before symptoms develop. 

In thanking Matthew Perry and Professor Langley, we would like to state our confirmed position as a charity.

We believe that the PSA Blood Test remains the best first line of defence against this terrible disease, and are delighted to confirm that the largest ever research programme, TRANSFORM will include the PSA test as a vital part of the trial.

Beginning in 2025, TRANSFORM is a £42 million programme aimed at revolutionising the diagnosis of prostate cancer by comparing potential screening options, including fast MRI Scans, genetic testing, and the PSA Blood Test.

You can read more about TRANSFORM on the PCUK website, here.

1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer.  Early prostate cancer is usually symptomless.  If you are over 50, or you are black, or there is a family history (your dad or brother either have, or had it), you are at greater risk and you need to talk to your GP about getting a simple PSA blood test.