Former Painter Raises Prostate Cancer Awareness to Save Lives

A former painter and decorator, Richard Attack, is on a mission to raise awareness about prostate cancer after his own diagnosis. At 65 years old, Richard discovered he had stage four prostate cancer in 2021 following months of experiencing troubling symptoms. Now, as a representative for the Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance, he shares his story to encourage men to seek medical advice when they notice changes in their health.

Richard’s symptoms began with frequent urination, particularly at night. Initially attributing it to aging, he later experienced shoulder pain, which he dismissed as a result of his previous job. After researching his symptoms online, he suspected a urinary tract infection. It was only after visiting his doctor that he learned the true cause: prostate cancer that had spread to his bones, leading to the shoulder discomfort.

Richard emphasizes the importance of being proactive about health. “My message to other men is simple: know the symptoms, trust your instincts, and don’t delay that conversation with your GP if you have any unusual symptoms,” he stated. “That ten-minute appointment could save your life.”

Community Engagement Roadshow Launches

In March, which is recognized as prostate cancer awareness month, Richard is assisting the Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance in launching a community engagement roadshow. The initiative aims to educate communities about prostate cancer and its symptoms, especially in areas where late-stage diagnoses are more common.

Prostate cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among men in the UK, with approximately 150 new cases diagnosed daily, totaling about 55,300 new cases annually. This illness affects not only men but also individuals who are trans women or non-binary and were assigned male at birth.

The prostate, a small gland located beneath the bladder, is responsible for producing fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, particularly affecting men over the age of 50. Statistics indicate that one in eight men will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. The risk is even higher for Black men and those with a family history of the disease, with a one in four chance of developing prostate cancer.

In the early stages, prostate cancer may not present any symptoms. As the disease progresses, signs can include pain in the back, hips, or pelvis, difficulty maintaining an erection, and urinary issues. Richard’s story highlights the critical nature of early detection, as successful treatment is more likely when the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage.

Raising Awareness and Understanding

Throughout the month of March, staff and volunteers from the Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance will engage with communities to promote awareness of prostate cancer. Events will be held across the region to educate the public about the signs and symptoms of the disease.

Dr. Mark Rogers, a urology consultant at the Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby, emphasizes the importance of understanding what is normal for one’s body. “It’s vital to recognize early signs of prostate cancer, which is why our Cancer Alliance is dedicated to increasing community awareness,” he noted. “Symptoms to watch for include frequent urination, urgency, difficulty starting urination, weak urine flow, and blood in urine or semen.”

For those concerned about their risk, Prostate Cancer UK has developed a risk-checker tool that can assess an individual’s risk in just 30 seconds. The Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance is committed to improving understanding and encouraging early diagnosis of prostate cancer through this initiative.

For more information about prostate cancer and the ongoing awareness campaign, individuals are encouraged to visit the Cancer Alliance’s official website. Richard’s advocacy is a reminder of the critical importance of being aware of one’s health and taking action when necessary.