Statement: Change of Prime Minister

This decision from the National Screening Committee is disappointing. The current system puts too much burden on each man to know his risk and proactively ask for a test. This decision particularly lets down men from groups who have at least double the risk from this disease, including Black men and those with a family history of prostate, breast or ovarian cancer.

For far too long, men have been left to navigate the risks of prostate cancer themselves, with far too many receiving an incurable, late prostate cancer diagnosis as a result. This situation could now continue for further years to come until this issue is re-examined, including through additional high-quality evidence from the TRANSFORM trial.

It is correct that this decision is given to those with the right scientific expertise, and I do welcome the limited improvements recommended for the men who have a known genetic vulnerability. But it is deeply saddening not to see better news, and we must not stop highlighting the evidence that greater change is needed. Despite this set-back, I will keep working through the APPG on prostate cancer on the steps that are urgently needed to improve diagnosis, treatment, and care.