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Medically Approved by Dr Aqua Asif (May 1st 2025)

Written by Brian Lynch

 

Prostate cancer is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK. It has overtaken breast, lung, and bowel cancers to become the leading cancer diagnosis by volume. 

Behind those big numbers lies some good news: more men are coming forward to discuss their risk, and today’s MRI‑led diagnostic pathway is better at finding significant cancers early while avoiding unnecessary biopsies. At the same time, however, the volume of cases places extra demand on already‑stretched NHS diagnostic and treatment services. 

How common is prostate cancer?

  • Incidence: Around 1 in 8 men in the UK will be diagnosed at some point in their lives. For Black men, the lifetime risk is closer to 1 in 4.
  • Annual diagnoses (UK): just over 50,000 men each year, with England accounting for the majority.
  • Age profile: Risk rises after 50, the median age at diagnosis is 67.

Greater public awareness (helped by high‑profile campaigns and celebrities sharing their stories) and wider use of PSA blood tests, risk‑checker tools and pre‑biopsy MRI scans all contribute to the recent surge in diagnoses. Importantly, there is no national screening programme; PSA testing is offered on an “informed‑choice” basis after discussion with a GP.

Why are cases increasing?

The increase in diagnoses reflects a combination of demographic and diagnostic factors:

  • Ageing population: Prostate cancer risk rises sharply after age 50, and life expectancy in the UK continues to improve.
  • Improved diagnostic pathway: Greater use of PSA testing, multiparametric MRI and MRI‑targeted biopsies has led to earlier and more accurate detection of clinically significant disease.
  • Awareness and engagement: Public health campaigns and improved education have encouraged more men to seek evaluation when at risk.

Pressure on NHS services

The 25 % rise in new cases coincides with workforce shortages in radiology, pathology and oncology. The latest NPCA report shows:

  • 9 % year‑on‑year increase in diagnoses between 2022 and 2023.
  • Waiting‑time targets for the 28‑day faster‑diagnosis standard were met for only 66 % of men in 2024 (national target = 75 %).

The NHS is expanding MRI capacity and introducing one‑stop “rapid access” clinics to shorten diagnostic pathways. The increase in diagnoses places additional demands on diagnostic and treatment services. Although NHS capacity has recovered since the Covid‑19 pandemic, timely access to MRI, specialist consultation and definitive treatment remains essential to maintain favourable outcomes.

What this means for men

Early‑stage prostate cancer is highly treatable, with many men avoiding major side effects when managed promptly. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can necessitate more aggressive therapy and may affect long‑term outcomes.

Men are encouraged to discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers and, where appropriate, seek a second opinion or consider exploring private assessment to expedite being seen sooner.

Focal Therapy Clinic’s role

The Focal Therapy Clinic specialises in targeted, minimally invasive treatments for men with localised prostate cancer. Using technologies such as High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) and NanoKnife, the clinic treats only the cancerous areas of the prostate. With over 2,000 men treated and access to advanced imaging, the clinic leads the field, backed by trusted focal therapy data and evidence.

For men facing long NHS wait times, private care through the clinic can offer quicker access to effective treatment. Each patient is supported by a multidisciplinary team that creates a personalised care plan. This focused approach helps preserve healthy tissue and reduces the risk of side effects like incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

Focal therapy is especially valuable for early-stage patients who may otherwise face delays or more invasive treatments. Timely access to expert care leads to better results and greater peace of mind for patients and their families.

Final thoughts on the growing challenge

The rise of prostate cancer to become the UK’s most commonly diagnosed cancer is an important reminder, not a cause for panic, that taking an active interest in prostate health matters. Advances in imaging, biopsy techniques and focal therapy give today’s men more precise, less disruptive options than ever before. Acting promptly, seeking clear information and weighing all treatment avenues will put you in the strongest position if prostate cancer enters your life.

For those exploring their next step who are unsure of how to choose the right focal therapy, it’s important to reach out for a consultation as soon as possible. 

References

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