Sir Chris Hoy shares 'positive outcome' after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer
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Sir Chris Hoy has opened up about his experience with prostate cancer, sharing that his journey to raise awareness has brought him a sense of 'purpose'. The six-time Olympic gold medalist shocked the world last year by announcing his terminal stage four diagnosis.
But rather than slowing down, the 11-time world champion track cyclist is now focused on advocacy, encouraging more men to recognise the risks of the disease. He told the Sunday Times that his Instagram inbox is filled with messages from other men who detected their prostate cancer early after being motivated by his experience.
The 49-year-old now works alongside Prostate Cancer UK, which provides an online risk-checking tool that more than 180,000 men have used. "That campaign has saved lives," he told the newspaper.
"And you know, in all the chaos and all the fear and all the horror of first being diagnosed with stage four cancer, you can never imagine any positive outcome coming from that situation.
"So to know that there is one has given me a purpose. In difficult moments you remind yourself, actually there is a net positive from this whole situation. And I'm lucky because I have a platform."
The Hoy family has faced significant challenges since Sir Chris' diagnosis. The cyclist's wife, Sarra, has also been grappling with a severe form of multiple sclerosis (MS). She was diagnosed shortly after discovering that her husband's condition had advanced to stage four.
Asked about his wife's illness, Sir Chris said she doesn't discuss it too much. The Edinburgh-born athlete continued: "When the days are difficult, she doesn't ever admit to it, but clearly the thoughts are, 'Is this the start of a decline? Is this how it's going to be from now on?'
"It's very difficult, and she's so stoic and strong, and not willing to ask for sympathy."
How is prostate cancer tested?
While there is no single test for prostate cancer, medics may conduct physical examinations, MRI scans, biopsies or blood tests to make a diagnosis. One such blood examination is referred to as a PSA test.
This determines the level of prostate-specific antigen in your blood, where increased levels could indicate prostate issues, according to the NHS. Prostate Cancer UK states that 'normal' PSA levels are typically less than 3ng/ml, though this can vary due to factors like age and medication.
The NHS does not routinely offer PSA testing. However, you may be encouraged to have one if you are exhibiting symptoms of prostate cancer.
Blood in urine or semen, struggling to urinate or peeing more frequently than usual are among the potential signs of this disease. Current NHS guidance explains: "You may be offered a PSA test if a doctor thinks you have symptoms that could be prostate cancer.
"If you're having treatment for a prostate condition you may be offered regular PSA tests to check how the treatment is working. Men aged 50 or over can ask their GP for a PSA test, even if they do not have symptoms. Anyone aged 50 or over with a prostate can ask for a PSA test.
"There is a risk a PSA test result may not be accurate, and you may be offered tests and treatment you do not need. You can discuss the benefits and risks of a PSA test with your GP."
For more information, head to the NHS website.
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