Men’s Health: Why Regular GP Checks Matter for Prostate Cancer Awareness
15 Jun 2026
Lan Henderson, who has worked in prostate cancer care for 14 years, says many serious health conditions develop without obvious early symptoms, making regular check-ups essential.
Why Early Checks Are Important
According to Ian Henderson, conditions like high blood pressure, prediabetes, and high cholesterol often develop silently. Prostate cancer is also one of these conditions, with early stages usually showing no clear symptoms.
He says waiting for symptoms can delay diagnosis and reduce treatment options.
Men are encouraged to:
- see a GP every year from age 50
- start from age 40 if there is a family history of prostate cancer
Common Misunderstandings About Men’s Health
Ian Henderson says two common beliefs often stop men from seeking care:
- “I’ve been healthy, so I don’t need a GP.”
- “Prostate cancer is something you die with, not from.”
He explains that while prostate cancer can be manageable, late diagnosis can lead to more complex treatment such as hormone therapy, which may have significant side effects.
Urinary Symptoms Are Not Always Cancer
Many men avoid seeing a doctor when they notice urinary changes, assuming it means cancer. However, these symptoms can also be caused by:
- infection or inflammation
- an enlarged prostate (common with age)
- lifestyle factors such as high caffeine intake
- treatable bladder or prostate conditions
In many cases, these issues can be managed with medication, lifestyle changes, or simple procedures.
The Importance of Routine Visits
Ian Henderson says some men only visit a GP once, get a clear result, and then do not return for years. He stresses that health can change over time, so regular check-ups are important.
He also notes that many prostate cancer cases are found during GP visits for unrelated health concerns, where routine blood tests lead to early detection.
Supporting Men Through Diagnosis
Working across urology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, Ian supports men and their families through diagnosis and treatment.
He says the period between tests and diagnosis can be stressful, and his role is to provide guidance, reassurance, and access to reliable information.
Education and Support Initiatives
Ian is also involved in developing education programs for men undergoing prostate cancer treatment, particularly those on androgen deprivation therapy. These programs focus on managing side effects and improving quality of life through lifestyle support and education.
Symptoms of Advanced Prostate Cancer
While early prostate cancer often has no symptoms, later stages may include:
- frequent or painful urination
- blood in urine or semen
- weak urine flow
- pain in the back or pelvis
- fatigue or unexplained weight loss
- bone pain if the cancer has spread
Health experts are encouraging men to prioritise yearly GP visits and not wait for symptoms before seeking medical advice. Early checks remain one of the most effective ways to detect prostate cancer and other silent health conditions.
Men’s Health: Why Regular GP Checks Matter for Prostate Cancer Awareness
Source: Health Tasmania / Royal Hobart Hospital (Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse feature, 2026)