Prostate cancer diagnoses in England increased by 7% in 2025, with 60,827 men diagnosed compared to 57,029 the previous year, according to data from the National Prostate Cancer Audit (NPCA). Of these cases, 6,312 involved cancer that had already spread, marking a rise from 5,696 advanced cases in 2024. Despite this increase, survival rates for men diagnosed with incurable advanced prostate cancer have shown notable improvement in recent years.
An analysis of data from more than 45,000 men with advanced prostate cancer revealed that the proportion of patients who died within three years of diagnosis declined from 56% in 2015 to 47% in 2022. Researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine attributed this improvement to the introduction and wider use of new treatments on the NHS. These treatments include the chemotherapy drug docetaxel, hormone therapies such as enzalutamide and abiraterone, and prostate radiotherapy. Docetaxel, in particular, has become the most commonly used chemotherapy for advanced cases.
Experts note that these advances have translated into longer survival for many men. Professor Alison Tree, clinical oncological lead on the NPCA, commented that the research demonstrates how medical breakthroughs have directly contributed to better outcomes for patients. Meanwhile, Professor Noel Clarke, clinical surgical lead on the audit, emphasized the continued rise in diagnoses and the crucial role of early detection, which significantly improves chances of cure.
Natalia Norori, head of data and evidence at Prostate Cancer UK, highlighted the human impact behind the statistics, noting that more men are living longer and better lives due to these treatment innovations. However, she also warned that nearly half of men with advanced prostate cancer still die within three years, underscoring the need for ongoing investment in prostate cancer care to improve access to effective therapies.
The increase in diagnoses is partly attributed to greater awareness of symptoms and more frequent use of PSA blood tests, which help identify men at risk earlier. This awareness has been bolstered by public calls from figures such as Sir Chris Hoy and Jeremy Clarkson, who have shared their own diagnoses to encourage others to seek testing.
Among those benefiting from new treatment approaches is Kevin Mortimer, 51, from Liverpool. Diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer that had spread to his bones and lungs, Mortimer was given a terminal prognosis. Following a course of "triplet therapy," which combines three different treatments, his cancer is now undetectable three years later. Mortimer described his experience as a testament to the progress made in prostate cancer care thanks to ongoing scientific research and investment.
While the outlook for prostate cancer patients has improved markedly, health experts emphasize the continuing challenges posed by late diagnosis and a still significant mortality rate among those with advanced disease. They stress the importance of maintaining research momentum and healthcare resources to further enhance treatment options and survival rates.