Feargal Sharkey Shares Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: “Go Get the Blood Test and Walk Away Lucky”

Feargal Sharkey opens up about his prostate cancer journey and urges men over 45 to get tested early to save lives.

Feargal Sharkey's Health Scare and Early Diagnosis

The iconic frontman of The Undertones, Feargal Sharkey, recently revealed that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year. In a candid interview, Sharkey opened up about his unexpected health scare, stressing the importance of early detection and urging men to have regular screenings.

He recalled, “About a year and a half ago, I randomly went to see my GP with a sore throat.” The doctor, with a mix of humor and care, told him, “Oh Feargal, by the way, you’re 65 now, I’m going to run the full battery of tests.” This routine checkup turned out to be a lifesaver.

Sharkey emphasized how lucky he felt to have caught the cancer early. “If it had not been seen to, it could have been a very different ending and a very different outcome to my life.”

A Vital Message for Men Over 45

Feargal Sharkey is now on a mission to spread a crucial message: men over 45 need to take their health seriously and get checked. He states, “If there’s one man out there over the age of 45, go and see your GP. Go and get the blood test done.”

He pointed out some startling statistics, “One in eight men in this country right now have prostate cancer. Most of them don’t even know it.” This makes screening not just important, but potentially life-saving.

His advice is clear and straightforward: “Go and have the blood test and if you’re lucky, you’ll walk away.” It’s a call to action that could prevent tragic outcomes through simple, routine medical checks.

Feargal Sharkey’s Musical Journey

For those who may not know, Feargal Sharkey was the charismatic lead vocalist of Derry’s punk band The Undertones from 1975 until their split in 1983. He lent his voice to timeless hits such as “Teenage Kicks,” “My Perfect Cousin,” and “Wednesday Week.”

After The Undertones, Sharkey collaborated with Vince Clarke of Depeche Mode and Erasure in The Assembly, scoring a hit with “Never Never” in 1983. He also achieved solo success with the chart-topping “A Good Heart” in 1985.

From Musician to Influential Industry Leader and Environmental Advocate

Beyond his music career, Sharkey transitioned into the business side of the industry. He held important roles including working for Polydor Records, heading the Live Music Forum, and serving as CEO of British Music Rights and UK Music.

More recently, Sharkey has become a passionate environmental campaigner. He’s been vocal about the urgent need for cleaner rivers and better regulation of the water industry. Criticizing oversights by agencies like Ofwat and the Environment Agency, he continues to fight for stronger protections to safeguard natural resources.

“If it had not been seen to, it could have been a very different ending and a very different outcome to my life.” — Feargal Sharkey

Conclusion

Feargal Sharkey’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most life-changing discoveries come from the most unexpected places. His experience underscores the importance of regular health checkups, especially for men over 45. Are you due for your prostate screening? It might just save your life!

FAQs

• What is prostate cancer?
  Prostate cancer is a common cancer in men affecting the prostate gland, often developing slowly and treatable if caught early.
• At what age should men start getting tested for prostate cancer?
  Men should generally begin prostate cancer screening around age 45, or earlier if there is a family history or other risk factors.
• What does a prostate cancer blood test involve?
  The blood test, known as PSA (prostate-specific antigen), measures a protein produced by the prostate which can indicate cancer risk.
• Can prostate cancer be cured if detected early?
  Yes, early detection greatly improves treatment success, with many cases being effectively treated or managed.
• Why is prostate cancer awareness important?
  Because many men don’t show symptoms early on, awareness encourages timely screening which can save lives.

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