Former Labour deputy leader Lord Tom Watson has announced that his prostate cancer has returned, prompting him to prioritise his health and take a leave of absence from the House of Lords for treatment and recovery.

Lord Watson, 59, was first diagnosed with non-aggressive prostate cancer in March 2023. At that time, he described the diagnosis as a startling moment that fundamentally altered his perspective. His initial treatment was successful, and he was later declared free of the disease.

However, earlier this year, testing revealed a recurrence of the cancer. Speaking about the news, Lord Watson said it served as a “wake-up call” to reassess how he manages his health. “This time, I knew I had to build life around health again, not bolt it on,” he explained. He has since stopped drinking alcohol, increased his exercise, and changed his diet in an effort to improve his wellbeing.

Lord Watson disclosed that initial tests following the renewed diagnosis suggest the cancer may now be gone, but he awaits further testing this summer to confirm the status. Despite the uncertainty, he said he is feeling well and “chipper.”

Reflecting on the period leading up to his first diagnosis, Lord Watson recounted enduring significant personal challenges. He spent three months in Cornwall supporting his stepfather’s end-of-life care, experienced the collapse of an important relationship, and faced housing instability. Returning to his duties in the House of Lords amid intense media scrutiny added further pressure. He admitted that during this time, his weight increased and other health indicators, including blood pressure and glucose levels, worsened.

Lord Watson has been active in the House of Lords while also managing personal projects such as renovating a house, which contributed to neglecting his health. He acknowledged that the demands of work, travel, family, and other responsibilities often took precedence over self-care.

Politically, Watson served as a minister in the governments of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown before stepping down from ministerial roles in 2006. He played a role in pressing Blair to resign as Prime Minister and later took on responsibilities as a whip and as Minister for Digital Engagement and Civil Service Issues under Brown. In 2015, he was elected Labour Deputy Leader following the party’s defeat in the general election under Ed Miliband’s leadership.

Lord Watson’s announcement highlights the ongoing challenges of managing health within demanding professional and personal circumstances. His decision to prioritise treatment and recovery reflects a broader awareness of the importance of wellbeing in public life.