Fylde Rugby Club to pilot for prostate cancer screening

The pilot phase of this service is set to take place before the Fylde v Wharfedale fixture on Saturday, January 20, at Woodlands.

Individuals choosing the screening will be charged a fee of £45. In return, they will also receive a complimentary Fylde RUFC rugby match ticket.

Dr. Asif Sange, medical director at On Call Doctors, said: "We are pleased to join forces with Fylde Rugby Club to introduce Prostate Screening for the first time at The Woodlands. Through this partnership, we're bringing important health screenings directly to the community.

“The overarching message is clear: early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve outcomes, allowing many to continue living fulfilling lives."

The screening is a 2-step process beginning with a blood test and an appointment, and after that, an appointment, if required. The test measures for the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood, a protein produced by standard prostate cells, and, more critically, by prostate cancer cells.

Prostate cancer remains a significant concern in the UK. It is the most common cancer in men, with an average of 52,300 new cases annually or over 140 daily between 2016-2018. It represents 27% of all new male cancer cases for the same period. However, despite these alarming statistics, there is a silver lining. The death rate, which is around 33 daily or 12,000 annually between 2017-2019, has declined due to earlier diagnoses and advancements in treatment.

Anthony Hoskisson, President of Fylde Rugby Club, commented: "A local rugby club like Fylde can make a difference in many ways. This partnership is a great example of how we can affect more than what happens on the pitch. It's about safeguarding our community. If these screenings lead to early detection for even one person, it will be worth it."

Men over 50 are particularly encouraged to be aware of the symptoms associated with prostate cancer, which can include difficulties in urinating, pain during urination, the presence of blood in urine or semen, persistent pain in the back or pelvis, and instances of erectile dysfunction.