Prostate cancer is now officially the most common form of the disease that is diagnosed in the UK, affecting approximately one in eight men during their lifetime.
But with early detection it can be successfully treated. However, without a nationwide screening programme being in place, too many are being diagnosed at a late stage, meaning that awareness of key symptoms is vital to ensure that a greater number of men are being tested when there are potentially worrying signs making an appearance.
Mostly found in men over the age of 50, the risk massively increases with age, with the majority of cases being diagnosed in those over 65, but black men face a significantly greater chance of being impacted by this form of cancer, with a staggering one in four facing a diagnosis at some point during their lives.
The game of golf is at the frontline of the battle against prostate cancer. When you think of the average member of a club, you will likely picture a middle aged (and older) man, which is ultimately the demographic most at risk.
Prostate Cancer UK has been working tirelessly to spread the word around golf clubs, which is an effort supported by the remarkably successful The Big Golf Race charity marathon that has raised millions of pounds since it was introduced.
Individual golfers are also taking it upon themselves to make a difference, often with personal experience being the driving force behind them.
(John Proudly Supports Prostate Cancer UK)
63-year-old John Brownless is one of these super supporters, who has helped to raise more than £200,000 for Prostate Cancer UK in the years since he was diagnosed at just 42 back in 2004.
Staging numerous golf days at home and abroad, John's efforts have led to other men being diagnosed after learning about his story and then visiting their GP.
"I’ve had grown men charge across the golf course and thank me," he said. "Many have told me they have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, but that they are having treatment. They are so grateful."
This potentially lifesaving spotlight is shone brightly during his annual day at Shipley Golf Club in Yorkshire, while he also hosts hugely popular golf days in Spain that have led to deep friendships being made with those who participate.
"People say quite often 'why do you keep doing this year on year as you are banging the same drum?' I tell them the reason I do it, is, as well as awareness I’ve got two sons and I don’t want them to have prostate cancer so if I can do anything to help find a cure before they get into the vulnerability of age where they can pick it up, then I’ve done my bit. That’s the reason I do it."
(John Meets Ryan at Howley Hall)
Spreading the message even further, John recently joined Golfshake's Equipment Expert Ryan Rastall for a round of golf at Howley Hall Golf Club in Leeds, where they discussed his journey, the importance of awareness, and the extraordinary difference that these successful charity golf days can make.
You can see how they got on (in some mixed weather!) by watching the full video below.
And if you would like to know more about Prostate Cancer UK and what golfers can do to help, then please visit https://prostatecanceruk.org/golf.
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