M&S teams up with Sir Chris Hoy to tackle prostate cancer

The initiative comes as NHS data reveals that 24 per cent of men with prostate cancer in the North West are diagnosed too late for a cure.

Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in England, yet it remains the only major cancer without a screening programme.

The retailer has partnered with Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy and Prostate Cancer UK to encourage men to check their risk of prostate cancer.

From now until the end of March, £4 from every pack of M&S Autograph men's underwear will be donated to Prostate Cancer UK.

QR codes will also be rolled out in all North West Clothing & Home stores to drive a nationwide conversation about the disease.

Sir Chris Hoy, who was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer in September 2023, said: "When M&S approached me, this campaign felt like a no brainer.

"I really believe that together, we can make a difference.

"As men, we know we can be pretty poor at putting our health to the top of our priorities and are reluctant to talk about it, but prostate cancer often has no symptoms.

"Therefore, one simple check, really can save lives."

Sir Chris Hoy (Image: M&S) Mitch Hughes, menswear director at M&S, said: "When Sir Chris Hoy was diagnosed with prostate cancer, it brought the condition front of mind for a lot of us and made men like me question, how would I know if I’m at risk?

"As the market leader in men’s underwear, we felt we had the opportunity to support his inspiring message.

"We’re very proud of our long-standing partnership with Breast Cancer Now and the impact we have made supporting women to check for signs of breast cancer, but there is more we can do to support men to check their risk of prostate cancer."

Laura Kerby, chief executive of Prostate Cancer UK, said: "When Sir Chris Hoy went public with his prostate diagnosis last year, he made a huge positive impact for men everywhere.

"His bravery has inspired so many men to take action about their prostate cancer risk, and he has undoubtedly saved lives."

One in eight men will get prostate cancer, and it's now the most common cancer in England.

But the earlier you find it, the easier it is to treat.

To check your risk, visit Prostate Cancer UK's website.

If you are at risk, the first test for prostate cancer is a simple PSA blood test, and you have the right to get one for free from your GP.