Doctor shares early sign of prostate cancer that's often overlooked after Chris Hoy diagnosis

A GP has highlighted a symptom of prostate cancer that's frequently overlooked following Sir Chris Hoy's heart-wrenching announcement of his prognosis. The six-time Olympic champion disclosed on Saturday (October 19) that he has been given a life expectancy of two to four years, after initially sharing his diagnosis months earlier.

"And just like that, I learn how I will die," Hoy penned in his new memoir, All That Matters. Dr Ahmed took to TikTok to discuss the issue, noting: "Cancer in young people, it is getting more common."

He pointed out that Hoy first experienced shoulder pain, which was mistaken for an injury from working out, yet this can often be the "first presenting complaint" of prostate cancer.

Symptoms such as back pain, shoulder pain, and swollen lymph nodes may indicate the disease, which in Hoy's case, has metastasised to his bones. Dr Ahmed also mentioned that the most typical early signs are related to urination, including increased frequency, blood in urine, or nocturia.

However, these symptoms are commonly missed, particularly among younger individuals, reports Surrey Live.

Dr Ahmed has highlighted less common symptoms of prostate cancer, such as abdominal pain, tenesmus – the constant feeling of needing to empty bowels or bladder – unexpected weight loss, and "any new constipation". He emphasized the importance of early detection: "Like all cancers, the earlier we catch it, the more it's curable," and added, "For example, if we catch prostate cancer at an early stage, almost all men will be fully cured."

Conversely, he warned that "However, if it's an advanced stage, only 28% of men will become cured."

Prostate cancer is prevalent among men, with one in eight being diagnosed in their lifetime, especially those aged between 75 and 79.

The NHS informs that while the disease often develops slowly without signs for years, diagnosis typically involves blood tests, a physical exam, MRI scan, and/or biopsy. Early-stage treatment options may involve prostatectomy or radiotherapy, The Mirror reports.