Chris Kamara has shared a health update following his 2024 prostate cancer scare, revealing that his awareness appeal led to a significant increase in men using a risk checker. The former footballer, who played for Leeds United, Sheffield United, and Bradford City, underwent testing in 2024 after a routine blood test showed an above-average PSA level, a possible indicator of prostate cancer. Doctors later confirmed he did not have the disease.
Risk Checker Usage Surges
Sharing his thoughts on X, Kamara stated: "Had some good news from @ProstateUK that blokes using the risk checker after my appeal in the paper last week, went up by a THIRD." He added: "They know from experience that this will prompt a number men to see their doctor. Unfortunately, some will get a diagnosis- BUT thankfully early enough to save their lives."
Great North Run Plans
Kamara is set to run the Great North Run with close mate Ben Shephard and his son Jack to support Prostate Cancer UK. The event takes place on Sunday, September 13, from Newcastle upon Tyne to South Shields. Speaking to the Mirror, Kamara said: "Any man would feel scared about the prospect of getting prostate cancer. I've been working with the charity for more than a decade, so I know that early diagnosis is absolutely key."
He continued: "A routine test I had two years ago flagged up a slightly PSA level raised level. That was a scary thing to hear, but thankfully, it turned out I didn't have prostate cancer. After consistent monitoring, my levels remain the same."
Encouraging Men to Get Checked
Kamara urged men to look after themselves: "As men, it's so important we look after ourselves and keep an eye on any changes. I do get up in the night to pee more now. But that's a symptom of other conditions too, so check with your GP. And I know none of us likes going to the doctor about 'problems below the belt' - but it's a mountain you have to climb, so just do it."
The Great North Run is not his first charity event; Kamara previously joined ten charity walks with former Sky Sports colleague Jeff Stelling. He explained: "Doing the walks alongside my great mate Jeff and meeting so many affected by prostate cancer, or who were marching in honour of loved ones they had lost, really brought it home to me. Those stories are heartbreaking and inspirational at the same time, and having that knowledge of the disease certainly helped me deal with my scare."
Kamara highlighted the higher risk for black men: "I want to raise as much awareness as I can, particularly for black men, who are at double the risk. Prostate Cancer UK have a brilliant risk checker on their website. It takes 30 seconds and may just save your life." He added: "The problem with prostate checking, it's your genitals, and you feel embarrassed when you shouldn't be. These doctors and nurses have seen it all before. Get over that problem and go and get yourself checked."
As a North East native, Kamara expressed his excitement for the run: "I have always wanted to take on the Great North Run again after I was lucky enough to run it 26 years ago. That time round the great Sir Brendan Foster applauded me for getting home in just under 1 hour 30 minutes." He noted: "I've got a few problems with my balance these days so I hope it might be double that this time. But whatever happens I'll get round." He added: "What I do know is that it's an incredible event with passionate fans packing the streets. I look forward to seeing you all in September and look forward to some unbelievable support."
