Cancer Survivors Advocate for Testicular and Prostate Health Awareness

Two individuals who have overcome cancer are encouraging men to “Get to know your balls and your prostate” to increase understanding of the indicators of testicular and prostate cancer. Aaron Watson, diagnosed with testicular cancer at 22, emphasized that men should not hesitate to discuss “down there.” Ken McBride reported experiencing difficulty with urination, a common symptom of prostate cancer, without initially recognizing it. Prostate cancer, the most prevalent cancer among men, has recently gained significant public attention following Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy’s announcement that his cancer had metastasized and was terminal. Aaron and Ken both affirmed that early medical intervention was crucial to their survival. They are now sharing their experiences to shift the discourse surrounding men’s health. Aaron, 44, recounted that his symptoms started with discomfort in one testicle, initially believed to be a cyst. However, a tumor was subsequently discovered in his other testicle during his medical examination. He stated, “It was a really difficult and scary time. I didn’t talk about those things,” adding, “But now I would encourage all men if you’re experiencing pain, lumps, bumps, or anything unusual get checked out.” Aaron recommended heeding professional medical advice, recalling his consultant’s explanation that removing his testicle, rather than just the tumor, offered a 95% probability of preventing cancer recurrence. This prediction has held true for 22 years. Furthermore, despite being informed of potential difficulties, he and his wife successfully had a second son following his treatment and recuperation. The businessman from Bangor is involved with the charity Friends Of The Cancer Centre and its “Talking Balls” initiative, believing that humor is essential for initiating discussions. He commented, “The Balls on the Falls has been a great conversation starter.” He also mentioned, “On a social media post I advised men when they pass the balls on the Falls Road, to remember to check their own balls.” Early detection significantly improves the treatability of testicular cancer. Annually, approximately 66 men in Northern Ireland receive a diagnosis, with an average of only one death occurring each year. Ken McBride, 63, recognized an issue when he needed to urinate five or six times nightly but was unable to, despite the urge. Ken’s prostate cancer, which had not metastasized, received immediate treatment following his diagnosis. The father of one is presently participating in a clinical trial for the condition, receiving a new medication and undergoing consistent monitoring through blood tests. A singular diagnostic test for prostate cancer does not exist. Physicians establish a diagnosis using multiple indicators, such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. PSA tests are not standard for screening healthy men for prostate cancer due to the potential for inconsistent results. Prof. Joe O’Sullivan, a prostate oncologist at Queen’s University Belfast, stated that early detection of prostate cancer does not equate to a terminal diagnosis. He remarked, “Researchers and clinicians are working on ground-breaking research right now in Northern Ireland and not only our patients like Ken but patients elsewhere are benefiting.” Research conducted at Queen’s has encompassed a successful clinical trial demonstrating that a novel combination of radiotherapies has enhanced the treatment of highly advanced prostate cancer. The prostate is a small gland, comparable in size to a walnut, situated beneath the bladder and behind the penis. Prostate cancer represents the most prevalent cancer among males, with approximately 1,300 men in Northern Ireland receiving a diagnosis each year. Although over 280 men succumb to the disease annually, more than 12,000 men are currently living with it. Over 98% of cases emerge in men aged 50 or above, with the highest incidence observed in those over 70. Recent statistics from the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry indicate a rise in the percentage of prostate cancer cases that did not undergo any treatment, such as surgery, radiotherapy, systemic therapy, or hormone therapy. This proportion increased from 26% in 2018-2019 to 30% in 2020 and 33% in 2021, suggesting an increase in early-stage diagnoses. The NHS does not routinely provide PSA testing; however, men aged 50 or older can request a test from their GP even without symptoms. Testing might be advised if a man exhibits symptoms such as: The NHS is currently re-evaluating its guidance on prostate cancer testing, prompted by Sir Chris Hoy’s advocacy for increased screening among younger men.