Giles Coren, the esteemed food critic and BBC star, has recently shared his heartbreaking diagnosis of prostate cancer. This shocking news was made public on February 1, 2025, with Coren disclosing the details of his health struggles through his column for The Times.
Coren revealed he received his diagnosis at 9:30 AM on Wednesday, just before the announcement, sharing his experience to raise awareness about the disease. He cited the experiences of well-known personalities like Stephen Fry and Bill Turnbull, both of whom have previously spoken about their own battles with prostate cancer, as pivotal moments prompting him to undergo testing.
Initially, Coren underwent a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, where he received concerning results: his PSA score was four, which experts describe as 'abnormal and facing imminent death.' His doctor explained to him, “The cancer is referred to as ‘slow cancer’ which ‘all men get’ if they live long enough.” Despite the alarming score, he initially hesitated to proceed with more invasive testing.
After the inconclusive MRI scan, Coren did not agree to undergo a biopsy until his PSA levels rose to six and later to seven. Eventually, he consented to have the biopsy conducted at the Royal Free Hospital in North London. Upon examination, doctors found less than one millimeter of cancer across three out of twenty-one samples taken, which they classified as malignant. Fortunately, doctors reassured him: treatment would not be necessary at this time, but they would closely monitor his condition for any changes.
Coren has been critiquing food for The Times since 2002 and earned accolades, including the Food and Drink Writer of the Year at the British Press Awards back in 2005. He is also known for his television work, particularly as the presenter of the BBC show Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Born and raised in Paddington, Coren is part of a notable family—his father was the renowned journalist Alan Coren, and he has comedian Victoria Coren Mitchell as his sister.
The statistics surrounding prostate cancer are staggering. Prostate Cancer UK has reported more than 44,000 men diagnosed with the disease each year, with over 10,000 fatalities annually. There’s concerning data showing one in eight men may face this diagnosis during their lifetime. The disease mainly affects males over 50; risks significantly increase with age, particularly for black men and those with familial history.
Remarkably, just as Coren came to terms with his diagnosis, it was publicly reported this week by The Times and other media outlets, stating prostate cancer had become England's most common cancer, surpassing breast cancer for the first time. This rise highlights the urgency of awareness and proactive screening for the disease.
One of Coren’s more poignant observations was his struggle to even request the PSA test. He stated, “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.” This point shines light on the considerable barriers men face when seeking testing and screening for prostate conditions.
Adding to the complexity, growing knowledge around prostate cancer continues to evolve. Recent reports indicate treatment breakthroughs, with researchers noting developments showing promise for patients whose cases advance and do not respond to existing therapies. This progress is cheering news amid the challenges faced by those diagnosed.
Coren’s openness about his condition serves as both personal catharsis and societal education. His story is poignant, not just for his fans but for all men who might skip regular health screenings. He encourages proactive health discussions and screenings, working to shift the conversation around men's health altogether.
For those dealing with similar experiences or seeking support, organizations like Prostate Cancer UK and Macmillan Cancer Support offer valuable resources. Engaging with these groups can provide information and assistance for patients and their families confronting prostate cancer.
Giles Coren's diagnosis is more than just a personal struggle; it echoes the broader message of the importance of awareness, early detection, and the utilization of available medical resources to combat prostate cancer effectively. His narrative is one of resilience and advocacy—a reminder of what many may endure but also highlighting the progress still needed to eradicate barriers to health screenings for men everywhere.