Bradford psychologist speaks out on male cancer

The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Male Cancer discussed the three types of male cancer (testicular, prostate and penile) and looked at how more can be done to support patients both before treatment and after. Dr Pete Branney from the University of Bradford was invited to contribute due to his research in male cancer and in particular penile cancer. Pete has worked with men across the UK who have been affected by these cancers and is currently using these personal accounts as part of a bigger research project.

The meeting, led by the charity Orchid and Maria Caulfield MP, focussed on the top priorities facing male cancer diagnosis, treatment and care and set the agenda for future meetings taking place this year.

Dr Pete Branney said: “Male cancer can not only be life threatening but can reduce a patient’s quality of life even after treatment. Penile cancer especially is not spoken about widely and there is little literature or research into how it affects a patient psychologically. We need to break the taboo and improve the quality of healthcare interactions, so that patients are ready and able to talk about potentially embarrassing and sensitive topics.

“Hopefully we can raise awareness and in turn improve support given to patients throughout the diagnoses, treatment and recovery stages.”

Rebecca Porta, Orchid’s Chief Executive says “Over 50,000 men will be diagnosed with testicular, prostate and penile cancer in the UK in the next 12 months. Cases of these male cancers are on the increase and now more than ever before we must ensure that men have access to the services and support they need. The aim of the APPG is to bring together experts, charities, policy makers and stakeholder organisations to create a positive forum of exchange and debate and to drive forward improvement in the male cancer arena.”

The meeting took place on Monday 4 February and was chaired by Maria Caulfield MP.