When it comes to men’s health, there’s one topic that’s all too easy to ignore—until it’s too late. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australian men, and yet, its early warning signs are often so subtle they’re brushed off as ‘just getting older’.
But as the recent diagnosis of respected broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan at stage four shows, ignoring the signs can have devastating consequences.
Dermot, 67, who’s graced the screens of Sky News and the BBC, recently revealed he’s battling advanced prostate cancer.
Despite feeling well and responding to treatment, his cancer has already spread—making it incurable.
In a heartfelt message, he urged men, especially those over 50 or at higher risk, to get tested and to push for routine screening.
‘Early detection is crucial,’ he wrote. ‘Be aware, this disease can sometimes progress rapidly without obvious symptoms.’
So, what are the signs you shouldn’t ignore? And what should you do if you’re worried? Let’s break it down.
Why prostate cancer flies under the radar
The prostate is a small gland, about the size of a walnut, sitting just below the bladder and wrapped around the urethra.
As men age, the risk of prostate cancer rises—most cases are diagnosed in men over 50. But here’s the catch: early prostate cancer rarely causes symptoms.
When symptoms do appear, they’re often mistaken for normal ageing or benign prostate issues.
The subtle signs: What to watch for
Because the prostate surrounds the urethra, most symptoms are related to urination. Here are the key changes to look out for:
- Increased frequency of urination (especially at night)
- Sudden urges to urinate—that ‘I need to go NOW’ feeling
- Difficulty starting to pee (hesitancy)
- Straining or taking longer to empty the bladder
- Weaker urine flow
- Feeling like your bladder isn’t fully empty
- Blood in urine or semen (always see your GP if this happens)
It’s important to note: these symptoms don’t always mean cancer. In fact, more often than not, they’re caused by benign prostate enlargement—a common, non-cancerous condition. But they should always be checked out by your GP, just in case.
When prostate cancer spreads: Advanced warning signs
If prostate cancer spreads beyond the gland, it can cause:
- Bone or back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Pain in the testicles
These are more serious signs and warrant urgent medical attention.
Why early detection matters
The earlier prostate cancer is found, the better the chance of successful treatment. In its early stages, prostate cancer can often be cured with surgery or radiotherapy.
Once it spreads, treatment focuses on slowing the disease and managing symptoms.
Dermot Murnaghan’s story isn’t unique. Earlier this year, Olympic cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy, just 48, revealed he too had advanced, incurable prostate cancer—despite having no symptoms.
His diagnosis shocked the sporting world and highlighted the urgent need for better awareness and screening.
Should you get tested? Understanding the psa test
The main test for prostate cancer is the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate, and higher levels can indicate a problem.
But—and it’s a big but—PSA isn’t perfect. Levels can rise due to benign enlargement, infections, recent sexual activity, or even vigorous exercise.
Still, if you’re over 50, or over 45 with a family history or of African descent (which increases risk), you can ask your GP for a PSA test—even if you have no symptoms.
If your PSA is raised, your doctor may recommend further tests, such as a digital rectal exam, MRI, or biopsy.
What happens if cancer is found?
If caught early, some prostate cancers are so slow-growing that doctors may recommend ‘active surveillance’—regular monitoring rather than immediate treatment.
Others may need surgery or radiotherapy. If the cancer has spread, treatments like hormone therapy or chemotherapy can help control it, but may not cure it.
The push for routine screening
Unlike breast or bowel cancer, there’s currently no national screening program for prostate cancer in Australia.
Campaigners, including high-profile survivors, are calling for change—arguing that routine screening could save thousands of lives.
What can you do?
- Know your risk: Age, family history, and ethnicity all play a role.
- Watch for symptoms: Don’t ignore changes in urination or unexplained pain.
- Talk to your GP: If you’re over 50 (or over 45 with risk factors), ask about PSA testing.
- Don’t be embarrassed: Prostate health is nothing to be shy about—your life could depend on it.
A final word
Prostate cancer doesn’t have to be a death sentence. With early detection, most men survive and thrive. But silence and stigma are still costing lives.
As Dermot Murnaghan and Sir Chris Hoy have shown, it can happen to anyone—even those who seem the picture of health.
Have you or someone you know been affected by prostate cancer? Do you think there should be a national screening program? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—your story could help save a life.
Also read: Radical screening revamp—could this move rewrite men’s cancer survival odds?
I’m glad they found and had access to the best medical experts.
Hopefully those on Medicare or NHS get a good doctor too
Really should be for 40 and above. My friend was recently diagnosed through a routine blood test – no symptoms, mild or otherwise.