Food critic and BBC star Giles Coren has revealed he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. The announcement, shared with readers of The Times on January 31, 2025, details his extensive testing process and the moment he learned about his condition.
Coren's cancer diagnosis came as prostate cancer is now recognized as the most common cancer diagnosis in England, surpassing breast cancer diagnoses. Reflecting on his experience, Coren described the initial push he needed to get tested, which was inspired by the high-profile cancer battles of celebrities like Stephen Fry and Bill Turnbull. He noted this trend of celebrity advocacy played a significant role in raising awareness about the disease.
Initially, Coren’s prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test yielded concerning results, with his score starting at four, considered abnormal. “I had to demand, literally demand, a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test along with my annual cholesterol check, because not only is it not mandatory on the NHS but your GP is not even allowed to suggest it,” he explained. This proactive approach became important as Coren's PSA levels gradually rose, eventually reaching seven.
Following his initial MRI scan, which Coren described as “meh”—an inconclusive diagnosis—he delayed undergoing a biopsy. It wasn't until his PSA score climbed higher after several months, prompting his doctors to suggest the biopsy, which he eventually accepted. The procedure revealed less than one millimeter of cancer present in three out of 21 samples taken.
"...that no treatment would be necessary for the moment. Just monitoring," Coren stated, reflecting the current approach to managing his health status, indicating doctors are opting for careful observation before initiating treatment. For many men, this nuanced perspective on prostate cancer is increasingly important, as active monitoring can sometimes be the best initial strategy.
Prostate Cancer UK notes the disease is expected to affect one out of eight men during their lifetime, with risk factors including age, ethnicity, and family history. The disease primarily affects men over 50 and can escalate quickly based on individual circumstances. With the diagnosis numbers from 2022 and 2023 showing prostate cancer cases surged to over 55,000, it emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and proactive testing.
Coren's experience also highlights the lack of formal screening programs for prostate cancer within the NHS, which remain outdated. Despite the growing incidence of this cancer, many men remain unaware of their risks and often only seek tests if symptoms develop, which can often mean the disease has advanced. Recognizing the myths surrounding prostate cancer is integral to improving awareness and encouraging more men to seek evaluations sooner rather than later.
Experts such as David James from Prostate Cancer Research have highlighted several misconceptions about the disease. “One of the biggest misconceptions about prostate cancer is it only affects older men. There is obviously a link with age but there are also other significant risk factors, like family history, which put people at higher risk,” he explained.
Early detection reduces the severity of the disease, and healthcare professionals encourage men to take ownership of their health by asking for necessary tests. Importantly, Coren's experience resonates with many men who perhaps find themselves unsure about approaching the subject of prostate health without any apparent issue. The conversation needs to shift toward proactive health checks, raising awareness of these risks before symptoms arise.
Corralling attention around this issue, Giles Coren’s announcement not only provides him the opportunity to share his personal health challenge but also paves the way for dialogue surrounding the screening and awareness efforts for prostate cancer.
With the rise of cases diagnosed, especially among younger men, proactive health discussions and education are not just timely but necessary. The continued engagement from public figures like Coren acts as pivotal encouragement for men everywhere to prioritize their health and take steps toward early intervention, reflecting the broader societal responsibility to advocate for healthier lifestyles and monitoring practices.
Prostate Cancer UK emphasizes the need for urgent conversations about statistics showing increasing diagnosis rates and dispelling myths surrounding the disease. Moving forward, strategies should center around community and public health initiatives, ensuring more men engage with their health proactively.
Through sharing his story, Giles Coren aims to inspire the remaining community to confront the mindset of avoidance surrounding prostate health, emphasizing the importance of testing, monitoring, and prevention.