Actor and presenter Sir Tony Robinson has voiced his disappointment at draft recommendations advising against routine prostate cancer screening for all men. The UK National Screening Committee recently suggested biennial screening only for those with a known genetic risk, citing risks of overdiagnosis. Sir Tony said he had expected wider coverage for groups at higher risk, including black men and those with a family history, describing the omission as surprising and disheartening.
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He highlighted what he sees as a lack of lobbying among men compared with historic campaigns led by women over breast cancer screening. Sir Tony suggested that greater awareness and advocacy are needed, noting that many men may not fully recognise the seriousness of delaying checks. He also welcomed the ongoing Transform trial, launched by Prostate Cancer UK, which will assess whether combining PSA tests with rapid MRI scans could support a nationwide screening programme.
Sir Tony, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2023, said he would continue campaigning, stressing that modern testing no longer requires a rectal examination, an aspect he believes has discouraged many men. Former Olympian Sir Chris Hoy, who is living with advanced prostate cancer, echoed this view, emphasising that early diagnosis saves lives and calling the current proposals insufficient. He said he remains determined to raise awareness, support research and advocate for change.
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Further criticism came from former England footballer Sir Geoff Hurst, who argued that screening should be mandatory for men over 45, and from ex-footballer Les Ferdinand and actor Colin McFarlane. McFarlane, who along with his brother has been diagnosed with the disease, said black men “deserve better” and urged the Government to update NHS guidelines so that GPs can proactively offer blood tests to those at higher risk.
