Chris Kamara raises awareness about prostate cancer scare
Chris Kamara has opened up about a prostate cancer scare as he urged men to get tested, reports BritPanorama.
The 68-year-old, a long-time supporter of Prostate Cancer UK, revealed that a routine blood test conducted a couple of years ago raised concerns regarding his health.
Kamara received reassuring news that he did not have cancer, but emphasized the importance of men taking care of their health: “Any man would feel scared about the prospect of getting prostate cancer. I’ve been working with the charity for more than a decade, so I know that early diagnosis is absolutely key.”
“A routine test I had two years ago flagged up a slightly elevated PSA level,” the Sky Sports legend told the Mirror. “That was a scary thing to hear, but thankfully it turned out I didn’t have prostate cancer. After consistent monitoring, my levels remain the same. As men, it’s so important we look after ourselves and keep an eye on any changes.”
He noted, “I do get up in the night to pee more now. But that’s a symptom of other conditions too, so check with your GP.” Kamara acknowledged the reluctance many men have in addressing health issues related to their bodies: “I know none of us like going to the doctor about ‘problems below the belt’ – but it’s a mountain you have to climb, so just do it.”
“Doing the walks alongside my great mate Jeff and meeting so many affected by prostate cancer, or who were marching in honour of loved ones they had lost, really brought it home to me,” he added. “Those stories are heartbreaking and inspirational at the same time, and having that knowledge of the disease certainly helped me deal with my scare. I want to raise as much awareness as I can, particularly for black men, who are at double the risk.”
Kamara provided insights into a valuable resource, stating, “Prostate Cancer UK have a brilliant risk checker on their website. It takes 30 seconds and may just save your life.”
Furthermore, he is preparing to participate in a half-marathon alongside fellow broadcaster Ben Shephard. The duo, who have collaborated on several shows, are gearing up for the 13.1-mile challenge at the Great North Run in Newcastle.
Commenting on this upcoming event, Kamara said, “Ben has been amazing. He’s part of the reason I came back to do TV. He convinced me to do that GMB interview with him. I’m back partly down to his help and encouragement.” He reflected on his journey, stating, “I spent a couple of years feeling sorry for myself and thinking: ‘This is totally beyond me to ever consider getting back to walking, never mind jogging.’ I wanted to give myself a real challenge to try and get back to somewhere near the person I was.”
As he trains, Kamara remains committed to charity work, remarking, “What would be the perfect challenge for me? To do a half marathon and make it to the finish line with all my problems.” He acknowledged the physical challenges ahead, indicating that navigating stairs and hills would be particularly demanding, but expressed determination with the support of Shephard and his son Jack to overcome them.
For Kamara, this personal challenge reflects not just a return to fitness but also a broader crusade for health awareness among men, particularly regarding prostate health. It’s a poignant reminder of the battles many face quietly, but also of the camaraderie that can emerge in shared struggles.
