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Most men are ignorant about prostate cancer and its treatment
A survey by the Institute of Cancer Research found that only around 20% of men questioned said they knew a great deal or a fair amount about the disease, compared with 29% who knew about breast cancer and 51% who felt knowledgeable about heart disease.
Experts say the problem is that men are generally ignorant about their health and tend to be embarrassed about prostate and testicular problems.
Under-funding
Another problem is funding into prostate research. Around £1m a year is spent on research into prostate cancer, compared with £15m on breast cancer.
Ninety per cent of men questioned in the survey said they had no knowledge of the main diagnostic blood test for prostate cancer, known as the PSA (positive specific antigen) test. The figure for men over 45 - the highest risk group for the cancer - was 84%.
The test, which could be used as part of a national screening programme, identifies a protein in the blood which is linked to prostate cancer.
On the rise
Professor Colin Cooper, of the Institute of Cancer Research, said: "Cases of these cancers are on the increase and prostate is predicted to overtake lung and breast to become the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Britain by 2018 if national PSA testing for the disease is introduced."
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A fifth of men who show positive results in the PSA test will not have malignant cancer and experts want extra funding so alternatives can be developed.
A third of men questioned by the Institute of Cancer Research said they would take the test if it was available nationally.
Prostate cancer can only be cured with early intervention. Treatment carries a 90% risk of impotence and a 20% risk of incontinence.
Despite this, over 60% of men questioned by the institute said they woud be prepared to suffer the side-effects if their lives could be prolonged.
The Institute of Cancer Research can be contacted on 0171 352 8133.