Farmers highlight importance of prostate cancer health checks

Two Aberdeenshire farmers are urging men to seek prostate cancer checks, sharing their personal experiences through charity-backed videos to promote early diagnosis within Scotland’s agricultural community.

Pat Machray, president of the Royal Highland Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS), and Bert Maitland, an RHASS vice-president, have joined forces to highlight the importance of speaking openly about the disease.

Their testimonies feature in two videos produced by the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (Rsabi), which supports people in Scottish agriculture.

See also: Lincs farmer urges prostate cancer checks after scare

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the UK.

According to Prostate Cancer UK, about one in eight men will be diagnosed with the disease during their lifetime, with risk increasing due to factors including ethnicity and family history.

Both farmers stress that early detection and prompt treatment significantly improve outcomes.

Mr Machray said: “The support I received from family, friends and colleagues was wonderful. I was very open about having prostate cancer – why wouldn’t I be? It happened.

“That’s life. The NHS and UCAN [the Urological Cancer Charity] were faultless with their support and professionalism. There are so many people there to help you and they will do all they can. If you have any symptoms or any concerns at all, please go and get tested.”

Act quickly 

The pair emphasise that those working in agriculture often fail to prioritise their health, but say acting quickly on symptoms is vital.

Raising awareness of prostate cancer is also a focus for Rsabi’s Health Hut team of doctors and nurses, all from farming backgrounds.

Information about symptoms is available at Health Hut stands at auction marts, shows and events throughout the year, as well as via the Prostate Cancer UK website.

Awareness efforts will increase this summer through the RHASS Presidential Initiative, culminating in a major campaign at the 2026 Royal Highland Show, with further details to be announced ahead of this year’s event in June.