Darlington men urged to be aware of prostate cancer risks (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Darlington men urged to be aware of prostate cancer risks

12:42pm Friday 15th March 2013 in News

MEN are being urged to take control of their health by being aware of the signs of signals of prostate cancer.

In support of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, which runs throughout March, consultants from BMI Woodlands Hospital, in Darlington, are trying to raise awareness of the most common cancer among men in the UK.

More than 40,000 cases are diagnosed each year.

It claims a life every hour, but the cancer often goes undetected as it displays few symptoms in its very early stages, while latter signs may be ignored. Common symptoms include difficulty urinating, a weak urine flow, stopping and starting while passing urine or going to the toilet more often or at night.

Ben Jenkins, consultant urologist at the hospital, says that men with these symptoms should be seen by a specialist. He said: “When it comes to prostate cancer, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

“As men get older, their risk of prostate cancer increases, so men over 50 should be particularly proactive when it comes to detecting the disease, and a simple blood test could help them do this."

According to research commissioned by The Prostate Cancer Charity, seven out of ten men who face an increased risk of prostate cancer are not aware of the blood test.

Mr Jenkins added: “Men who experience prostate problems, such as needing to pass urine more frequently and discomfort when urinating, should seek medical help.

“This will not only relieve pain, but also ensure that if their symptoms are related to a more serious condition they can get the right treatment, sooner rather than later."