Olympic hero Sir Chris Hoy has encouraged other men to check for the disease since his diagnosis last year.
Olympic hero Sir Chris Hoy has backed a new test trial that could “save countless lives” in the battle against prostate cancer.
The courageous Scot told last year how he was diagnosed with the disease and was given two to four years to live. But the six-time Olympic cycling gold medalist says he is excited by a new Prostate Cancer UK trial dubbed TRANSFORM, which hopes to find the best way to test men early for the disease.
Hoy, 49, said: “The TRANSFORM trial could completely revolutionise the way men are screened and diagnosed. It’s exciting to be part of something so impactful – it could save countless lives.”
He added: “By the time my kids are grown, I hope prostate cancer won’t have the same devastating impact it does today.
“What we do now isn’t just for us – it’s for the next generation.
“It’s about creating a future where early detection and treatment are the norm.”
The dad of two has repeated his call for men, whether or not they have symptons, to get tested for prostate cancer.
Both his father and grandfather had the disease which meant he could have been tested when he was 45. Had he been tested, then there is a possibility his cancer could have been detected early and cured.
He said: “I found out I had stage four prostate cancer without any symptoms. By the time I felt pain, it wasn’t in my prostate any more – it was secondary cancer in my bones.
“If I’d thought to check when I was younger, maybe I’d have caught it in time. That’s why raising awareness is so important. So others don’t end up in the same situation.
“Prostate Cancer UK’s online risk checker takes just 30 seconds.
“You can do it any time of day, it’s so simple and easy.
“Men with a family history of prostate cancer or black men, who are at higher risk, need to be particularly vigilant. It’s not just about waiting till you’re 50. Often there are no symptoms, which is why we need to be proactive. Getting on the front foot is crucial.”
He admitted: “Going public with my diagnosis was scary.
“You’re opening up your life to the world – and that’s daunting.
“I’ve been incredibly lucky to have so much support from my family, friends and even the general public.
“The kindness has lifted me up and given me a sense of purpose.
“A problem shared is a problem halved – so check in on your mates, your dad, your brother.
“One conversation could make all the difference.”
He added: “Men often put their health last. We make sure everyone else is looked after but we forget about ourselves.
“We need to break down those barriers and make health a priority for men everywhere.
“I think if we talked about it more, it would help.
“Talking creates awareness – and awareness drives action.” He also spoke of sport as a greater “unifier”.
He explained: “It cuts across age, gender and social boundaries. It’s where men connect, laugh and bond.
“That’s why it’s such a powerful platform for raising awareness. It’s the perfect setting to inspire action.” Hoy said when dealing with a serious health diagnosis it is important to do everything in your control to improve your outcomes.
He explained: “Small changes – like moving more or eating healthier – can have a huge impact.
“When you don’t feel like going for a walk or a bike ride, think about your future self.
“Your future self will thank you for making the effort.
“Once it becomes a habit, it gets so much easier.”
