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90% Back Prostate Screening: UK Health Decision Looms
27 Nov
Summary
- Ninety percent of UK adults want a prostate cancer screening program.
- Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in the UK.
- A major study showed screening reduces prostate cancer deaths by 13%.
Public demand for a national prostate cancer screening program is overwhelmingly strong, with 90% of UK adults supporting the initiative ahead of a key decision by the UK National Screening Committee. The survey reveals that 62% consider routine checks to catch the disease early as 'very important.' This widespread public backing underscores the growing concern over prostate cancer, which has now surpassed other cancers as the most prevalent in the UK, causing 12,000 deaths annually.
The urgency for a screening program is amplified by recent findings showing that such initiatives can reduce the risk of dying from prostate cancer by 13%. This effectiveness is comparable to existing breast and bowel cancer screening programs. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has indicated a commitment to launching a program 'quickly' if recommended by expert advisors, highlighting the government's potential to act decisively on this health issue.
The call for screening spans across the political spectrum, signaling a broad consensus on its importance. Prostate Cancer Research emphasizes that ignoring public sentiment poses a political risk. The organization's director stated, 'People want action on prostate cancer, and they want it now.' The push for screening, particularly for high-risk individuals such as Black men and those with a family history, aims to prevent further needless deaths and tragedies.
