Number of men living with prostate cancer in the UK has surged by 100,000 since 2020 - with one diagnosed every eight minutes

Published: 01:12, 22 August 2026 | Updated: 01:25, 22 August 2026 The number of men living with prostate cancer in the UK has surged by 100,000 since 2020, according to the latest figures. More than 68,000 cases are diagnosed each year - the equivalent of one every eight minutes, says Macmillan Cancer Support. The charity's estimates show there are now around 600,000 men living with prostate cancer, compared with about 500,000 six years ago. It said prostate is the most common cancer in Britain and has warned that 'myths' surrounding the disease could be preventing men from getting checked. Dr Anthony Cunliffe, lead medical adviser at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: 'One of the biggest misunderstandings I hear is that feeling well means you cannot have prostate cancer. 'Many people are surprised to learn that, in reality, prostate cancer often develops without symptoms in its early stages, which is why it's important to have a conversation with your GP if you're worried.' The charity said some men with the disease will not see symptoms for many years and they usually occur when the cancer is large enough to press on the urethra - the tube which passes urine.  Symptoms typically include difficulty urinating; needing to urinate more often than usual, especially at night; a feeling that the bladder has not been completely emptied; an urgency when needing the toilet; and blood in urine or semen.  UK men living with prostate cancer have reached roughly 600,000, a 100,000 increase since 2020, with over 68,000 new diagnoses made annually (one every eight minutes) Macmillan Cancer Support highlights that early-stage prostate cancer often presents no symptoms The charity said it is important for men to speak to their GP if they have any of these symptoms. Dr Cunliffe added: 'Prostate cancer generally occurs in men over 50 but it can develop earlier in some groups, including black men and men with a family history of prostate cancer. 'As a GP, if, after discussing testing with a patient, we decide together to go ahead, then we often use a blood test called a PSA [prostate-specific antigen]. 'Some GPs may suggest an examination of the prostate, because it might give them more information, but this isn't always necessary and declining one won't be a barrier to having a blood test. So whether someone with a prostate has symptoms or not, we would always encourage speaking to the GP for more information about prostate cancer and getting tested.' In May, the UK National Screening Committee recommended against screening all men using the PSA blood test, saying it is 'likely to cause more harm than good'. Former PM Lord Cameron, who was treated for the disease after taking a test, called the move a 'backwards step'. Experts did recommend that a few thousand high-risk men with a certain gene mutation should be screened for the disease. Officials also announced that a screening trial will be expanded so that all eligible black men will be invited to take part. The Daily Mail is campaigning to end needless prostate deaths and wants screening for all men at high risk of the disease. Our campaign is backed by Sir Chris Hoy and Sir Stephen Fry, who have been treated for the disease.