Doing nothing is not an option - we CAN find a better way to detect prostate cancer and save more lives

Published: 19:55, 6 July 2026 | Updated: 19:55, 6 July 2026 When it comes to tackling prostate cancer, nobody puts it better than Sir Chris Hoy – doing nothing is not an option. The debate over prostate cancer screening shows no sign of abating with governments on both sides of the Border accepting the view that the evidence is not yet sufficient to introduce widespread population screening and preferring a targeted approach. That is, of course, their prerogative. These are complex decisions involving science, economics and public health, and they must be based on robust evidence. But equally, many clinicians, researchers and campaigners believe men are being short-changed by the current approach. While PSA testing has its limitations, it has its uses and, in combination with other tests, could make a very useful contribution to any future screening programme. That is why I believe Scotland has an opportunity to shine a light on how we approach this issue in the future. The question should no longer be whether we maintain the status quo. It should be whether we can develop a smarter, more targeted and more effective way of identifying those men who stand to benefit most from earlier diagnosis. At present, even access to PSA testing on its own is inconsistent. Men often find it difficult to request or receive a PSA blood test through GPs, yet they can purchase one privately. That inconsistency leads to confusion. Scientists and entrepreneur Sir Chris Evans is one of those behind a prostate cancer initiative to test more than 12,500 men - and aims to test 25,000 in total Since March, the Scottish Prostate Cancer Initiative – launched by Sir Chris Hoy, former Scotland rugby star Kenny Logan, businessman Sir Tom Hunter and myself – has tested more than 12,500 men from the Highlands to the Borders and aims to test 25,000 men in total. It is the largest project of its kind undertaken anywhere in the UK. Its ultimate objective is to explore how diagnosis can be improved, leading to better treatment options. With prostate cancer, it is abundantly clear that early detection saves lives. Importantly, this is not simply about PSA testing. Where appropriate, the project team are combining PSA testing with newer, more advanced diagnostics tests for men identified as being at higher risk. The project is currently evaluating the data from the first phase of testing 12,500 men and has already found numerous men with cancers at all stages, including stage 4, who had not reported any symptoms and today would be none the wiser had it not been for their participation in this Initiative. What I can say without hesitation, is that this initiative – being delivered by the laboratories of diagnostic company, EDX Medical, and supported by the prostate health awareness charity, the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust – has already proved transformative. Perhaps the most important lesson to date is that men in Scotland have overcome the fear of being tested. For decades, prostate examinations carried an unfortunate stigma. Too many men associated prostate checks with the dreaded rectal examination and simply avoided the conversation altogether. That has now changed. Today, the first step is a simple blood test. For those who require further investigation, we now have far more sophisticated diagnostic tools than were available even a decade ago. The taboo is disappearing. Across Scotland, we have witnessed an extraordinary willingness among men to come forward. Leading businessmen and employers including Sir Tom, Sandy and James Easdale, McGill’s Buses, Arnold Clark Group and the Malcolm Group – all with male- dominated workforces – have been instrumental in driving the project forward, actively encouraging their employees to prioritise their health. Whether in bus depots, vehicle showrooms, warehouses or sports halls, the camaraderie among colleagues and friends has been remarkable as bosses and workers alike sit together and get tested. Men who may never have booked an appointment themselves have come forward because friends and workmates did the same. From left: Kenny Logan, Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Chris Evans and Sir Tom Hunter at the launch of the Scottish Prostate Cancer Initiative At the outset, we were told that to capture 25,000 Scottish men would take an age but we could already have tested that number, such has been the demand. Instead, we deliberately chose to spread testing throughout the year to allow proper evaluation of the programme. From August, Phase 2 will begin, with another 12,500 men being offered testing. We will continue testing across Scotland with new events planned from the Isle of Lewis to Fife, many staged with the support of companies, football clubs and public organisations such as Police Scotland. This extensive testing will provide valuable data as we look at options for the future. Public awareness has also shifted dramatically thanks to the courage of well-known figures who have shared their own experiences. Sir Chris Hoy, Kenny Logan, John Barnes, Sir Rod Stewart and, most recently, Jeremy Clarkson have all helped normalise conversations about prostate cancer. Their honesty has undoubtedly saved lives. Crucially, they have reminded men of one uncomfortable truth: prostate cancer frequently develops silently. Many men experience no symptoms whatsoever until the disease has reached an advanced stage. This is precisely why earlier diagnosis matters. Scotland faces a particular challenge. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and Scotland also continues to have the highest rate of Stage 4 presentation in the UK and Europe. The human cost of diagnosing cancer late is immeasurable. The financial cost is equally stark. Treating advanced prostate cancer can cost in excess of £127,000 per patient, compared with approximately £13,000 when diagnosed at an early stage, according to the charity, Prostate Cancer Research. Every delayed diagnosis affects not only patients and families but employers, communities and our healthcare system. There is a compelling argument that men at higher risk deserve greater access to testing. Those with a strong family history. Men from black communities. Older men. Those with recognised clinical risk factors, all of which are recognised by governments. Modern medicine increasingly allows us to personalise healthcare rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions and this is where there are exciting possibilities for the future given the increasing availability of more sophisticated diagnostic tools, which may well complement existing pathways. The Scottish Prostate Cancer Initiative exists to help generate the evidence that can shape better policy. Scotland has always punched above its weight in medical innovation. There is an opportunity once again to lead through science, collaboration and practical action. More than ever before, I’m convinced that we can collectively find a better way to detect prostate cancer and Scotland is at the forefront of that challenge. *Sir Chris Evans is a scientist, entrepreneur and founder of EDX Medical