Blood In Your Poo: What Does It Mean – And What Should I Do About It?
May 19, 2025
Published on
22/5/2025
The LivingCare Group
The LivingCare Group
Every year, over 55,000 men in the UK receive a prostate cancer diagnosis – yet many of these cases could be caught much earlier when treatment is most effective. With prostate cancer being the second most common cause of cancer death in males, the question isn't whether you should consider screening, but when.
If you're over 50, have a family history of prostate cancer, or are of black heritage, the time to act is now. Early detection doesn't just improve your chances of survival – it gives you and your family the peace of mind that comes with taking control of your health.
Prostate screening has been in the spotlight again recently. Marcus Cumberbatch, LivingCare's Consultant Urological Surgeon, appeared on ITV Calendar (North) about the critical need for early detection. His message was clear: when it comes to prostate cancer, waiting for symptoms isn't an option.
This expert call for awareness comes at a crucial time. The Cancer Research UK statistics speak for themselves: almost everyone diagnosed with stage 1 or 2 will survive for 5 years or more. However, in the early stages, when treatment is most successful, prostate cancer often presents no symptoms at all.
While prostate cancer is more prevalent than breast cancer, there's a different approach to preventing it in the UK. Whilst the NHS provides national screening programmes for breast, bowel and cervical cancer, no such programme exists for prostate cancer, leaving thousands of men at unnecessary risk.
This gap in provision means that many men across Yorkshire and beyond are missing out on the early detection that could save their lives. Private screening offers a vital alternative to waiting for symptoms to appear for those living in Leeds, Sheffield and surrounding areas.
The numbers may surprise you: with over 55,000 new prostate cancer cases annually and 12,039 deaths each year, the human cost of delayed diagnosis is too high to ignore.
Recent research is building an overwhelming case for prostate screening programmes. A comprehensive study by Prostate Cancer Research UK involving 400 GPs hit the front pages last month, revealing compelling evidence for change.
The research demonstrates that a national screening programme would diagnose 775 additional cases annually in high-risk men and prevent 300 men each year from receiving a devastating stage 4 diagnosis. Perhaps most telling is that over 90% of GPs support implementing a national prostate screening programme, with 93% believing it would significantly improve both diagnosis rates and patient outcomes.
Addressing previous concerns about overdiagnosis, the study found that 94% of GPs don't consider this a problem, thanks to advances in diagnostic technology. Modern MRI scans, alongside PSA testing, dramatically reduce false positives and save you from unnecessary biopsies.
These findings underscore what many in the medical community have long advocated: early detection through screening saves lives and reduces the emotional and physical toll on patients and families.
The reality of prostate cancer touches lives across all walks of society. Former U.S. President Joe Biden, aged 82, recently announced his diagnosis with an aggressive form of the disease, and notably, sources suggest his last screening was in 2014. Similarly, actor Stephen Fry's 2018 diagnosis at age 61 led him to become a vocal advocate for early screening, using his platform to encourage men not to delay.
These cases remind us that prostate cancer doesn't discriminate, but early screening can make all the difference. If you're wondering whether you need screening, consider this: would you rather discover any issues now, when treatment options are most effective, or wait until symptoms force your hand?
Whilst the debate over national screening continues, you don't have to wait for policy changes to take control of your health. At LivingCare, we're already providing comprehensive prostate screening services across Yorkshire, combining cutting-edge technology with expert clinical care.
Our approach recognises that every patient is unique. Depending on your background, symptoms and risk factors, we offer:
Under the expertise of Mr Marcus Cumberbatch and our specialist team, you'll receive the same level of care that's making headlines – but without the wait. NHS referrals can take weeks or months, but our private prostate screening services in Leeds and Sheffield ensure you can take action when ready.
Private prostate screening isn't just about medical necessity. It's a valuable way to find reassurance and a sense that you've done everything possible to protect your health. Modern screening is simple, too – often a straightforward blood test. And while you're screened, our clinicians are there to guide you through every step.
If you're over 50, have a family history of prostate cancer, or are in a high-risk group, waiting isn't wisdom – it's a gamble with stakes too high to accept. The research is clear, the experts are united, and the technology is available here in Yorkshire.
Ready to take control of your health? Contact LivingCare today to discuss your prostate screening options. Call us on 0113 539 4646 or book your consultation online.
