John Barnes’s Cancer Diagnosis
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Former England and Liverpool FC soccer player John Barnes recently revealed that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. He also shared that he had undergone surgery to treat his cancer and is now “fine”.
Who is John Barnes?
Barnes is a former English soccer player who was known as one of the best wingers of his generation. He was best known for his time with Liverpool FC, where he helped the team win multiple league titles. After retiring from playing, Barnes continued his football career, working as a manager and pundit.
Throughout his career, Barnes won many awards, such as the PFA Player of the Year in 1987 and the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year in 1987 and 1989.
John Barnes’s cancer diagnosis
Barnes revealed his cancer diagnosis during an appearance on Times Radio. He shared that he had undergone surgery to remove his prostate after having been diagnosed with prostate cancer, and that he is now recovering well.
John Barnes on speaking up about his cancer diagnosis
Barnes further explained his rationale for speaking up, sharing, "Not many people know, and it's a bit of a taboo subject because we support women with breast cancer and it's not even an issue. Whereas with men, the government [says], 'yeah, prostate cancer, we need more awareness, we need people to come forward, and in black men it's more prevalent.' Men have to then bite the bullet and swallow their pride and admit if they have problems and say it. So it's a good thing that that has come out."
Prostate Cancer UK's Fundraising and Health Strategy Director, Chiara De Biase, responded to Barnes’s revelation, sharing, “We're so grateful to John for talking so openly about his prostate cancer diagnosis, and we're happy to hear he's had successful treatment. By sharing their stories, high-profile football figures affected by prostate cancer, like John and Chris Hughton, help us spread the message and galvanise the football community.”
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, with one in eight men likely to be diagnosed with the disease. Early detection is key and can greatly improve treatment outcomes.