Latest news with #UKNSC
Telegraph
4 days ago
- Health
- Telegraph
Prostate cancer patients ignored five times before diagnosis
Men with prostate cancer are being turned away by GPs multiple times before they can get a diagnosis. New data show almost 10,000 men a year are being diagnosed with the disease only after at least three visits to their GP. They include thousands of men who were referred for the right tests only after they turned to their family doctor at least five times. Today, The Telegraph is launching a campaign calling for the introduction of targeted screening for prostate cancer. It is also encouraging men to check if they are at risk of the disease. Currently, men are not offered tests, even if they have a family history of the disease. Experts believe there is a growing case for targeted screening, meaning that PSA blood tests would be offered to those at heightened risk of the disease. The UK National Screening Committee (UKNSC) is currently considering whether to recommend the rollout of such testing. Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men, with 55,000 diagnoses and 12,000 deaths annually. When the disease is caught early, it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival. Yet there is no screening programme, despite improvements in back-up diagnostic methods to support blood tests. It is the last major cancer without a screening programme. Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, praised The Telegraph's campaign. He said: 'I applaud The Telegraph and its readers for their long history of campaigning for better cancer care. ' As a cancer survivor who owes his life to the NHS I know all too well how important screening is and I would like to see a screening programme in place but it must be evidence-led. 'The UK National Screening Committee is looking at this as a priority – including reviewing the evidence for screening men with a family history of prostate cancer. 'While we wait for the evidence as to whether a screening programme would be safe, accurate and reliable, we are getting on with improving cancer treatment and prevention, as well as funding tens of millions of pounds of research and cutting waiting lists through our Plan for Change.' While there is no prostate cancer screening programme, there is a national breast screening programme for women, with mammograms offered every five years to those between the age of 50 and 70. The NHS data shows that men with prostate cancer fare far worse than women with breast cancer, in securing access to diagnostic tests and prompt treatment. The figures show 18.7 per cent of men with prostate cancer only received a diagnosis after least three visits to their GP. This amounts to 9,724 annually. For women with breast cancer the figure is 7.4 per cent, according to data from the NHS National Cancer Patient Experience Survey. For 5.2 per cent of men with prostate cancer, it took at least five visits, against 2.5 per cent of women with breast disease. The plight of men with prostate cancer has been highlighted by Sir Chris Hoy, a six-time Olympic cycling gold medallist, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer that originated in his prostate in 2023. Despite a family history of prostate cancer – which affected both his father and grandfather – he was never offered PSA tests. Mr Streeting has said that Sir Chris 'makes a powerful argument' about the case for prostate screening, especially where there is a family history of disease. Commenting on the data uncovered by The Telegraph, Oliver Kemp, the chief executive of Prostate Cancer Research, said: 'While these findings are alarming, sadly they confirm what patients have been telling us for years: too many men are slipping through the cracks, with their concerns dismissed time and time again. 'Prostate cancer is being caught far too late because we don't have a system designed to find it early. That's why it remains the second-biggest cancer killer of men in the UK. We urgently need a targeted screening programme to find those at risk early – when they have the best possible chance of survival.' Chiara De Biase, director of health services, equity and improvement at Prostate Cancer UK, said men with prostate cancer were subject to 'life-threatening inequalities'. She added: 'Those who've weighed up the pros and cons of PSA testing and made an informed choice to request a test are still being refused. And if you're black, working class, or even live in the North of the UK, you're more likely to get an incurable diagnosis. This is unacceptable and it's getting worse.' She said the situation was worsened by outdated NHS guidelines that tell GPs not to raise the issue of prostate cancer or PSA testing with patients, and rely instead on men to come forward. Ms De Biase added: 'Prostate cancer is the last major cancer without a screening programme. We submitted evidence more than two years ago backing the case for screening the highest-risk men, and we look forward to working with the UKNSC on their decision later this year.' The charity is encouraging all men to use their risk checker to assess their chance of prostate cancer, by going to: Prof Kamila Hawthorne, chairman of the Royal College of GPs, said: 'GPs want the best for their patients and while they are referring more patients to receive a timely cancer diagnosis in secondary care by making appropriate referrals, this can be incredibly challenging as early symptoms may often be vague or indicative of more common and less serious conditions – and some, such as prostate cancer, may not display symptoms until they are already at quite a late stage. 'Cancer screening programmes have potentially saved millions of lives, but screening does not come without risk, including the potential for overdiagnosis and harm to patients as a result, so it's vital that any screening programme is evidence-based and reliable.' Prof Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: 'The NHS is diagnosing more men with prostate cancer at an early stage than ever before – providing the best chance of success from treatment. 'Prostate cancer symptoms can be hard to distinguish from less serious causes, meaning it can take extra visits to the GP to rule these out, and we would encourage men to continue to come forward if they have any concerns about their health.'
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Rishi Sunak calls for national prostate cancer screening
Prostate cancer screening must be rolled out nationally, Rishi Sunak has urged. In his first major intervention since standing down as prime minister, Mr Sunak calls for targeted screening, so those with higher risk of the disease such as those with a family history of it undergo checks. The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) is currently considering whether to roll out screening. Experts believe there is a growing case for targeted screening, meaning that PSA blood tests would be offered to those at heightened risk of the disease. Writing for The Telegraph, Mr Sunak urges the UK NSC to make the leap – and to do so 'without delay'. In the meantime, he urges all men to use Father's Day this Sunday as an opportunity to talk to their fathers about their health. The MP, who recently became an ambassador for charity Prostate Cancer Research, writes: 'On Father's Day, many of us will call our dads for a chat. We'll discuss many things: the news, sport, the family. But few of us will touch on our health. 'For we men aren't very good at addressing that: I am the son of a GP but even me and my dad don't talk enough about health. In fact he's had a test, but it took him a while to get round to it. It's not that the topic is taboo, more that it never seems quite the right moment to ask a delicate question. 'But talking about health with your dad, and particularly the misconceptions around prostate cancer, could save their life. It is one of the best things you could do this Father's Day, and a true act of love'. Although one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetimes, polling has found only 7 per cent of men know that the disease is symptomless in its early stages. Mr Sunak warns too many men were leaving it 'dangerously late' to seek help, only coming forward when symptoms such as pain or blood in urine began to show. He says: 'The cancer will almost certainly be advanced at this point, and treatment far less certain to succeed. This ignorance is costing lives. It is why we need a targeted national screening programme to make sure that the right men are being checked at the right time for the disease. If we can make this happen, we can save thousands of lives.' Mr Sunak adds that since becoming an ambassador for the charity: 'What has really struck me in this time is how alien it is for men to proactively ask to be checked for a disease. Our assumption is that if everything is working fine, it is fine. 'When I raise prostate cancer and the need to get checked, men regularly tell me that everything is functioning down there, so they don't need a test. But that is not right: and this confusion is costing lives.' The UK NSC is expected to make a decision by the end of this year. Its members are considering different models, with discussions about the definition of close relatives if a family history becomes part of the criteria for targeted screening. As well as family history, risk factors also include ethnic group – with one in four black men diagnosed with the disease. Many experts in prostate cancer are calling for the 'dangerous' guidelines to be changed, so that younger men with a family history of prostate cancer such as Sir Chris Hoy can be tested for the disease. The 49-year-old, who is a six-time Olympic cycling gold medallist, was told he has two to four years to live after being diagnosed with terminal cancer that originated in his prostate. Despite a family history of prostate cancer – which affected both his father and grandfather – he was never offered PSA tests. In the UK prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with over 55,000 new cases diagnosed annually. Cases have risen by one quarter in the last five years. Despite improvements in survival, over 12,000 men die from prostate cancer each year. If prostate cancer is caught early, the chances of successful treatment are far higher. If it is detected after the disease has spread, the success rate of treatment is below 50 per cent. Mr Sunak salutes the work of men who have spoken out about the need to get checked, saying his friend Joe Biden's diagnosis would also raise awareness. Credit: US Network Pool via Reuters Oliver Kemp, chief executive of Prostate Cancer Research, said the rollout of targeted screening would prevent 300 men a year from developing incurable disease. He said: 'Every 40 minutes in the UK, a family loses a father, a grandfather, or a son to prostate cancer. This is a tragedy compounded by a postcode lottery that means a man's chances of survival can depend on where he lives. 'The current passive system, where men must know their own risk and ask for a test, is failing us and worsening health inequality across the UK. That is why Prostate Cancer Research is calling for the urgent introduction of a targeted national screening programme for men at the highest risk, including black men and those with a family history of the disease'. Polling has found 94 per cent of GPs would back the rollout. Mr Kemp said: 'As the UK National Screening Committee finalises its review, we call on the Government to champion this life-saving reform, which aligns perfectly with their stated mission to prioritise prevention and tackle health disparities. The time for waiting is over; the lives of thousands of men depend on this decision.' Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
South Wales Guardian
30-05-2025
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
FAI determination calls for review of staffing of maternity units at weekend
Freya Murphy was born on July 21 2018 at 9.31am in Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow, and died there on July 28, aged seven days and 12 hours old. The cause of death was given as global ischemic brain injury associated with acute chorioamnionitis, and a fatal accident inquiry was held at Glasgow Sheriff Court in November. First-time mother Karen Murphy, 32, from Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire, and husband Martin Murphy, called for several recommendations to be made, including screening for Group B Streptococcus (GBS). However sheriff Barry Divers said that there were 'no defects in any system of working which contributed to Freya's death' and said the death 'could not realistically have been avoided'. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said in a statement that the care was 'below the standards expected' and that a recommendation had already been adopted. The sheriff's determination made recommendations that the health board should review staffing levels across all shifts to ensure that its labour wards, post-natal wards, maternity assessment units and other hospital maternity related areas are adequately staffed at the weekend and in the evening. The measure was to have provision in the case of an emergency where two patients require admission to theatre at the same time, for the opening of a second operating theatre. It also recommended that the health board should formerly request that the United Kingdom National Screening Committee (UKNSC) give urgent consideration to a review of whether pregnant women routinely be offered screening for GBS. If such a review is under way, then a copy of this determination should be provided to the UKNSC for consideration, according to the determination. The determination said: 'It was clear on the evidence that all those clinicians (doctors and midwives) who spoke to their involvement with Freya, were motivated in their actions by doing what they thought was best for Freya and Mrs Murphy. 'It was obvious during their evidence that Freya's tragic death has left a mark upon each of them in different ways which will last for the rest of their professional careers and beyond. 'For the reasons I have explained, I have not been able to make all the findings or recommendations which they sought. 'However, I hope that the entirety of this FAI process, including the preparation for the evidential hearing, the evidence which was led, the submissions made and this determination, has at least addressed the questions which they have about what happened. 'It was suggested that the adoption of routine screening for GBS would be a suitable tribute for Freya. I understand why that submission was made. 'However, if I might respectfully say, I do not consider that would be accurate, even if it were to happen. 'The real tribute to Freya is the obvious love carried for Freya by her mother and father, which love has no doubt been passed on to Freya's siblings.' Dr Claire Harrow, deputy medical director for acute services at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: 'We would like to extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Freya Murphy, and once again to apologise for the distress they have experienced. 'The care Freya received fell below the standards expected and for this, we are very sorry. 'We have received the findings from the FAI. The recommendation for NHSGGC on staffing has already been implemented. 'In line with the recommendation on Group B Streptococcus, we plan to make a formal approach to United Kingdom National Screening Committee.'
Rhyl Journal
30-05-2025
- Health
- Rhyl Journal
FAI determination calls for review of staffing of maternity units at weekend
Freya Murphy was born on July 21 2018 at 9.31am in Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow, and died there on July 28, aged seven days and 12 hours old. The cause of death was given as global ischemic brain injury associated with acute chorioamnionitis, and a fatal accident inquiry was held at Glasgow Sheriff Court in November. First-time mother Karen Murphy, 32, from Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire, and husband Martin Murphy, called for several recommendations to be made, including screening for Group B Streptococcus (GBS). However sheriff Barry Divers said that there were 'no defects in any system of working which contributed to Freya's death' and said the death 'could not realistically have been avoided'. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said in a statement that the care was 'below the standards expected' and that a recommendation had already been adopted. The sheriff's determination made recommendations that the health board should review staffing levels across all shifts to ensure that its labour wards, post-natal wards, maternity assessment units and other hospital maternity related areas are adequately staffed at the weekend and in the evening. The measure was to have provision in the case of an emergency where two patients require admission to theatre at the same time, for the opening of a second operating theatre. It also recommended that the health board should formerly request that the United Kingdom National Screening Committee (UKNSC) give urgent consideration to a review of whether pregnant women routinely be offered screening for GBS. If such a review is under way, then a copy of this determination should be provided to the UKNSC for consideration, according to the determination. The determination said: 'It was clear on the evidence that all those clinicians (doctors and midwives) who spoke to their involvement with Freya, were motivated in their actions by doing what they thought was best for Freya and Mrs Murphy. 'It was obvious during their evidence that Freya's tragic death has left a mark upon each of them in different ways which will last for the rest of their professional careers and beyond. 'For the reasons I have explained, I have not been able to make all the findings or recommendations which they sought. 'However, I hope that the entirety of this FAI process, including the preparation for the evidential hearing, the evidence which was led, the submissions made and this determination, has at least addressed the questions which they have about what happened. 'It was suggested that the adoption of routine screening for GBS would be a suitable tribute for Freya. I understand why that submission was made. 'However, if I might respectfully say, I do not consider that would be accurate, even if it were to happen. 'The real tribute to Freya is the obvious love carried for Freya by her mother and father, which love has no doubt been passed on to Freya's siblings.' Dr Claire Harrow, deputy medical director for acute services at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: 'We would like to extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Freya Murphy, and once again to apologise for the distress they have experienced. 'The care Freya received fell below the standards expected and for this, we are very sorry. 'We have received the findings from the FAI. The recommendation for NHSGGC on staffing has already been implemented. 'In line with the recommendation on Group B Streptococcus, we plan to make a formal approach to United Kingdom National Screening Committee.'
Glasgow Times
30-05-2025
- Health
- Glasgow Times
FAI determination calls for review of staffing of maternity units at weekend
Freya Murphy was born on July 21 2018 at 9.31am in Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow, and died there on July 28, aged seven days and 12 hours old. The cause of death was given as global ischemic brain injury associated with acute chorioamnionitis, and a fatal accident inquiry was held at Glasgow Sheriff Court in November. First-time mother Karen Murphy, 32, from Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire, and husband Martin Murphy, called for several recommendations to be made, including screening for Group B Streptococcus (GBS). However sheriff Barry Divers said that there were 'no defects in any system of working which contributed to Freya's death' and said the death 'could not realistically have been avoided'. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said in a statement that the care was 'below the standards expected' and that a recommendation had already been adopted. The sheriff's determination made recommendations that the health board should review staffing levels across all shifts to ensure that its labour wards, post-natal wards, maternity assessment units and other hospital maternity related areas are adequately staffed at the weekend and in the evening. The measure was to have provision in the case of an emergency where two patients require admission to theatre at the same time, for the opening of a second operating theatre. It also recommended that the health board should formerly request that the United Kingdom National Screening Committee (UKNSC) give urgent consideration to a review of whether pregnant women routinely be offered screening for GBS. If such a review is under way, then a copy of this determination should be provided to the UKNSC for consideration, according to the determination. The determination said: 'It was clear on the evidence that all those clinicians (doctors and midwives) who spoke to their involvement with Freya, were motivated in their actions by doing what they thought was best for Freya and Mrs Murphy. 'It was obvious during their evidence that Freya's tragic death has left a mark upon each of them in different ways which will last for the rest of their professional careers and beyond. 'For the reasons I have explained, I have not been able to make all the findings or recommendations which they sought. 'However, I hope that the entirety of this FAI process, including the preparation for the evidential hearing, the evidence which was led, the submissions made and this determination, has at least addressed the questions which they have about what happened. 'It was suggested that the adoption of routine screening for GBS would be a suitable tribute for Freya. I understand why that submission was made. 'However, if I might respectfully say, I do not consider that would be accurate, even if it were to happen. 'The real tribute to Freya is the obvious love carried for Freya by her mother and father, which love has no doubt been passed on to Freya's siblings.' Dr Claire Harrow, deputy medical director for acute services at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: 'We would like to extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Freya Murphy, and once again to apologise for the distress they have experienced. 'The care Freya received fell below the standards expected and for this, we are very sorry. 'We have received the findings from the FAI. The recommendation for NHSGGC on staffing has already been implemented. 'In line with the recommendation on Group B Streptococcus, we plan to make a formal approach to United Kingdom National Screening Committee.'
