Sir Ian McGeechan declares prostate cancer "all gone"

Rugby legend Sir Ian McGeechan has revealed that his prostate cancer is now “all gone and under control,” five months after completing treatment.

In his first television interview since the diagnosis, Sir Ian urged the UK government to introduce a national screening programme for men.

The 78-year-old, who was diagnosed earlier this year, said he finished treatment at the end of April and by late May his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level had fallen to 0.8 - a reading he described as “effectively gone.”

He credited early detection, quick access to tests, and prompt treatment for his recovery.

McGeechan pointed out that PSA blood tests are routinely available only for men over 50, and their reliability is still debated. He argued that broader access is needed.

“Everybody should have the opportunity to find out early,” he told Sky News.

As the only person to win tours with the British & Irish Lions as both a player and head coach, Sir Ian is now using his profile to raise awareness.

He stressed that men with family history or symptoms such as frequent night-time waking should get tested without delay.

Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer among men in the UK. Around 63,000 are diagnosed each year, with about 12,000 deaths annually.

Sir Ian believes a structured national screening programme could make a major difference in saving lives.

"It needs that support from government," Sir Ian said. "There has to be a screening programme because prostate cancer is recoverable.

"And it would be a great shame if people miss that opportunity to have a scan and not just be able to have it there rather than be asking can you, can't you."