Nick Owen launches podcast about prostate cancer

Nick Owen said men were very reluctant to talk about prostate cancer

TV news presenter Nick Owen has launched a podcast encouraging men to talk about prostate cancer and its symptoms.

The BBC Midlands Today host was diagnosed with the "extensive and aggressive" cancer in April 2023, and underwent surgery.

He said he felt "really grateful" to be feeling fit and well and back at work following his diagnosis.

Mr Owen said being involved in the podcast, called Deadly Silent was a great opportunity to encourage other men to get tested for the condition.

In the podcast, the TV host is joined by former NHS doctor Kanty Patel to share their experiences of having prostate cancer.

The conversation was recorded as they walked outdoors, to show that it can be easier for men to talk about such a subject when there is no "eye-to-eye" contact, said Mr Owen.

Men have a "reluctance" to talk about the condition, he said, as the prostate is a "very personal part of the body."

The podcast wanted to identify ways where men can feel more comfortable to share their concerns, whether that was while walking, driving or playing golf.

The TV host said he wanted to get the message out about prostate cancer checks at every opportunity

Private cancer care company GenesisCare are behind the podcast, with a survey conducted on its behalf suggesting the majority of men would be embarrassed by the warning signs of the cancer.

Potential symptoms can include difficulty starting to urinate, or needing to urinate more often than normal.

According to Prostate Cancer UK, one in eight men will get prostate cancer.

The charity said black men, men over 50, and men whose father or brother have had the condition were at higher risk.

Mr Owen, who has presented BBC Midlands Today since 1997 and is ex-chairman of Luton Town FC, said he was "glad" he had talked about his prostate cancer, and it was "gratifying" to know it had encouraged others to get checked.

"I've had emails and letters from people who had been to the doctors, some say it has saved their lives."