Rishi Sunak Calls for Targeted Prostate Cancer Screening to Save Countless Lives in the UK

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called for a targeted prostate cancer screening programme for men at the highest risk, describing it as a measure that could “save countless lives.”

Sunak, who serves as a patron of Prostate Cancer Research, voiced his strong support following the charity’s new report outlining the costs and benefits of such an initiative. The proposed screening would focus on Black men and men with a family history of prostate cancer, aged 45–69.

Sunak emphasised that the programme would be both affordable and deliverable, urging immediate action. The charity estimates the annual cost at around £25 million — approximately £18 per patient — comparable to existing bowel and breast cancer screening programmes.

The screening process would include MRI scans, PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood tests, and biopsies. With an estimated 1.3 million eligible men in the UK, the plan assumes 20% participation annually, expecting a 72% uptake rate.

While Sunak highlighted the urgency of early detection — inspired partly by family and friends affected by the disease — he acknowledged that many men hesitate to discuss health issues. “That’s why a proactive targeted screening programme could make a difference in helping save lives,” he said.

However, some medical professionals remain cautious. Professor Hashim Ahmed, Chair of Urology at Imperial College, warned that unnecessary treatment could cause harm, noting that “the harm-to-benefit equation isn’t quite right yet.” Critics also cite false positives from PSA tests, which can result from infections or other non-cancerous conditions.

Prostate Cancer Research argues the benefits outweigh the risks, especially given the rising number of cases. In 2024, over 58,000 men in England were diagnosed with prostate cancer — a 9% increase from the previous year. Black men are twice as likely to be diagnosed compared to white men, and men with a family history face a significantly higher risk.

Patient stories further underscore the urgency. David Bateman, diagnosed at 59 after his cancer spread to his pelvis, believes screening could have changed his outcome. “If I had been screened at 50, I am sure I wouldn’t be in the position I am today,” he said.

High-profile figures such as Sir Steve McQueen and Sir Chris Hoy have also lent their voices to the cause. McQueen, who survived prostate cancer, said screening could “equalise the situation” and ensure fair access to treatment. Hoy, who is battling advanced prostate cancer, advocates lowering the age threshold for PSA tests.

With the UK National Screening Committee currently re-evaluating its stance on prostate cancer screening, Sunak’s call adds renewed momentum to a debate that could transform men’s health across the nation.