TV presenter Dermot Murnaghan has died aged 68, a year after revealing he had been diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer. The broadcaster, who hosted programmes including ITV Evening News, BBC News at 10 and gameshow Eggheads, passed away 'peacefully with his family at his side' at his London home, according to a statement posted to his X account.
Murnaghan's Campaign for Early Detection
After sharing his diagnosis last summer, Murnaghan campaigned for prostate cancer testing, stressing the importance of early detection but urging people to be aware that the disease 'can sometimes progress rapidly without obvious symptoms.' 'Needless to say my message to all men over 50, in high risk groups, or displaying symptoms, is get yourself tested and campaign for routine prostate screening by the NHS,' he said.
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer among men in the UK, mainly affecting those over 50, although it can occur at any age. As Cancer Research explains, it is cancer of the prostate gland, part of the male reproductive system located at the base of the bladder, about the size of a walnut but growing larger with age. Cancer occurs when abnormal cells divide and grow uncontrollably, potentially spreading to other parts of the body.
Seven Warning Signs to Watch For
In many cases, prostate cancer causes no symptoms at all. The best way to detect it early is with a PSA blood test, which can be done even without symptoms. However, Professor Hashim Ahmed, consultant urological surgeon at Cromwell Hospital, told Metro: 'It's really important that men speak to their GP as soon as possible, if they notice any changes to their urine.' He shared seven changes to be wary of:
- Needing to pee more frequently, often during the night: If you start urinating more often during the day, get a sudden urge to go, or need to get up at night, it can be a sign of an enlarged prostate or another issue such as a UTI.
- Straining or difficulty starting urination: An enlarged prostate or tumour may block urine flow through the urethra, making it hard to start.
- A weak flow of urine: Pressure on the urethra can prevent the bladder from emptying fully, leading to a weak stream and frequent trips to the toilet.
- Difficulty stopping when peeing or dribbling urine: Men may find it hard to stop urinating or experience dribbling after finishing.
- Feeling like you're not able to fully empty your bladder: This can result from a tumour blocking the urethra.
- Blood in urine: Even a small amount of blood should be checked by a GP immediately.
- Erectile problems: This includes difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, painful ejaculation, blood in semen, or decreased ejaculation volume.
Professor Ahmed added: 'If you're displaying these symptoms, don't panic. These can all be caused by other problems, and many are just temporary symptoms. All the same, it's still a good idea to speak to your GP about any concerns you may have as soon as possible, so they can investigate further.'
Prevention and Research
Research suggests that frequent ejaculation may reduce prostate cancer risk. A study published in European Urology followed 32,000 men for 18 years and found that those who ejaculated 21 times per month had a 20% lower risk of prostate cancer compared to those who ejaculated only four to seven times per month. Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital scientists also found benefits from daily ejaculation, whether through intercourse or masturbation.
Scientists have revealed that global deaths from prostate cancer are likely to double in the next 20 years, highlighting the importance of proactive prostate health. Murnaghan's death serves as a stark reminder of the need for awareness and early detection.
