Former Sky News presenter Dermot Murnaghan has opened up about his recent prostate cancer diagnosis, using his platform to encourage men to prioritise early testing. The 65-year-old broadcaster, known for his decades in journalism, shared his story to highlight the importance of the PSA blood test after his own cancer was detected through routine screening.
A Wake-Up Call for Men's Health
Murnaghan described how a "simple blood test" potentially saved his life after revealing elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels. "I had no symptoms whatsoever," he admitted, underscoring how prostate cancer often develops silently. His treatment at an NHS hospital included surgery which he credits with "getting rid of the cancer completely."
The Importance of Early Detection
The journalist praised Cancer Research UK for their awareness campaigns while noting concerning statistics: "Over 140 men die from prostate cancer every single day in the UK." He particularly urged black men and those with family history to get tested earlier, as they face higher risks.
Breaking the Silence on Men's Health
Murnaghan's decision to go public follows similar moves by celebrities like Stephen Fry and Bill Turnbull, helping normalise conversations about male health issues. "We need to get over this reluctance to talk about these things," he stated, advocating for regular check-ups regardless of symptoms.
