Chris Hoy calls for systematic prostate cancer screening in UK

Sir Chris Hoy, the six-time Olympic gold medallist, has called for a more systematic and proactive approach to prostate cancer screening in the UK, stating that the responsibility for raising awareness should not fall solely on high-profile individuals. The 50-year-old cycling legend, who is living with Stage 4 prostate cancer, made the comments in an interview with BBC Scotland on August 25, 2026.

Hoy was diagnosed with the disease in September 2023 after a routine scan found a tumour in his shoulder, which he initially dismissed as an age-related ache. He revealed in October 2024 that the cancer had spread to his bones and was no longer treatable. Despite this, he told the BBC he is "doing really well" right now and that "life just goes on."

His advocacy has intensified as he pushes for greater public education and personal responsibility. Hoy pointed out that while he received a bowel cancer screening test upon turning 50, there is no equivalent systematic process for prostate cancer. He acknowledged that the PSA blood test used for detection is not perfect, but argued that concerns about potential over-treatment are a separate issue for doctors to manage. "I think knowing...