GP explains 'everyday' symptoms that may be signs of 'silent' killer

A GP has given a warning to men throughout the UK in light of former US President Joe Biden's battle with metastatic prostate cancer. Dr Steve Coogan, who founded myGP Clinic, said that the case served as a poignant reminder that prostate cancer can quietly advance, even among those with access to top-tier healthcare services.

"President Biden's diagnosis highlights the cruel reality of prostate cancer," said Dr Coogan. "It often grows slowly and shows no symptoms until it's already spread. In his case, it's now metastasised to the bone, which significantly worsens the outlook."

The sobering reality in England is that prostate cancer has become the most commonly diagnosed cancer, with data showing one in eight men will battle it during their lifetime. Alarmingly, this likelihood jumps to one in four for those whose father or brother has been affected by the disease.

Dr Coogan shared a personal connection to this issue; he lost his own father to prostate cancer when he was 72. "He had no symptoms until it was far too late," he reflected.

"His PSA (prostate-specific antigen) level was over 4,000. He died within two years. If he'd had regular checks, he might still be here."

Fuelled by this heartrending experience, Dr Coogan is determined to detect prostate cancer early, before it's too late to treat. Over the past 18 months, myGP Clinic has identified early-stage prostate cancer in 14 asymptomatic men, with each patient proceeding to successful curative interventions.

Dr Coogan outlines seven tell-tale warning signs that should not be ignored

1. Struggles with beginning or halting urination - "It's one of the earliest signs something might be wrong with the prostate."

2. Feeble or sporadic urine stream - "A reduced flow can be a red flag, especially if it develops gradually."

3. Increased frequency of urination, particularly at night - "This is easy to dismiss with age - but it's a classic early symptom."

4. Experiencing pain or a burning sensation during urination - "Often overlooked, but could be linked to prostate or urinary issues."

5. Presence of blood in urine or semen - "This should always be checked - don't assume it's nothing."

6. Difficulties with erections - "A change in sexual function can be an early warning, not just a performance issue."

7. Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis - "This could suggest the cancer has spread - especially if it's persistent."

However, Dr Coogan added a stark reminder that many men might not even notice any symptoms with early-stage prostate cancer.

"You can feel completely fine and still be at risk," he pointed out. "That's why proactive screening matters - especially if you're over 50 or have a family history."

myGP Clinic offers those over 40 routine annual PSA tests within its health checks, which also includes a full medical rundown and physical examination.

Dr Coogan, whose clincs are across the North West of England, said: "We're guided by national guidelines, but we're not limited by them," he asserted. "Every man deserves personalised care, based on his risk factors and preferences. Early detection really can save your life."