BBC presenter Dermot Murnaghan has revealed he is battling stage four prostate cancer and is calling for improved NHS screening processes. The 67-year-old former Sky News broadcaster was diagnosed in June and has completed a course of chemotherapy.
Murnaghan spoke candidly about his treatment experience, telling reporters: "I wouldn't recommend it. It's hard. But that one thing is you feel that you are actively doing something in the hands of wonderful medical professionals." He described the process as "kicking back" against the disease.
Current status and screening advocacy
The veteran journalist has now finished his chemotherapy course and is in what he describes as the "waiting and seeing phase." He is using his platform to advocate for better screening access for men over 50, particularly those in high-risk groups or displaying symptoms.
Only Sky News reports that Murnaghan's cancer was discovered when he fell ill during a foreign holiday, rather than through typical screening or obvious symptoms. He acknowledged that despite covering prostate cancer stories as a journalist over the years, he was one of those who "fell through those gaps" in the current system.
Men have the "right" to be screened on the NHS, Murnaghan explained, but it is usually something they must actively request rather than being routinely offered. He stressed: "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."
Future plans and awareness efforts
Murnaghan is planning to join Sir Chris Hoy, who was also diagnosed with prostate cancer, on a charity bike ride in September to raise money for cancer charities. According to the Daily Mail, Murnaghan was himself a victim of a hit-and-run cycling accident in 2017, adding personal significance to his cycling advocacy efforts.
The broadcaster emphasised the urgency of early detection, warning: "Early detection is crucial. And be aware, this disease can sometimes progress rapidly without obvious symptoms." The Daily Mail reports that improved PSA testing accuracy could potentially save the NHS money through earlier detection and treatment.
Prostate Cancer UK figures show that around one in eight men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime. The disease often presents no symptoms in its early stages, as it typically begins growing on the outer part of the prostate where it doesn't initially press on the urethra.
The NHS warns that when symptoms do appear, they can include difficulty starting urination, weak urine flow, frequent or urgent need to urinate, and feeling unable to fully empty the bladder. More advanced symptoms may include erectile dysfunction, blood in urine or semen, and unexplained lower back pain or weight loss.
Sources used: "Birmingham Mail", "Daily Mail", "Sky News" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
