Concerns grow over missed prostate cancer early detection

Nigel Burnham, diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, highlights concerns about missed early detection. He experienced symptoms like erectile dysfunction years before his diagnosis but was not offered a PSA test, which could have identified the cancer earlier. Burnham's case reflects a broader issue where many men may not receive necessary PSA tests. The NHS currently does not routinely offer these tests to men under 50 unless they show symptoms, despite many prostate cancer patients being asymptomatic. Calls for change are growing, especially after the diagnosis of Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy at a young age. The NHS is reviewing its testing guidelines, and alternative diagnostic methods are being explored to improve early detection of prostate cancer.