09 June 2025

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is warning of a silent crisis in men’s health, with new data revealing the cost of living is pushing Australian men to delay doctor visits or cut back on vital medication to save money.

As Men’s Health Week begins, PCFA research reveals one in two Aussie men are putting their health at risk by delaying medical appointments while one in ten are stretching out prescriptions to save money.

Findings from the 2025 PCFA Men’s Health Report, which surveyed over 1,300 men nationally, show that:

  • 51% have delayed or avoided seeing a healthcare professional due to cost concerns
  • 1 in 10 have reduced or skipped prescribed medication dosages to make it last longer
  • 57% say healthcare is expensive or very expensive
  • The cost of private health insurance continues to act as a barrier to access for many
  • 92% believe the government should do more to reduce healthcare costs

Anne Savage, CEO of PCFA, says the findings are a wake-up call.

“For too many men, cost is becoming a barrier to care — and that has real consequences,” Ms Savage said.

“When men put off seeing a GP or stretch their medications just to get by, we increase the risks of delayed diagnosis of a range of serious illnesses and disease, including prostate cancer.

“Access to affordable, timely healthcare is not a luxury — it’s a life-saving necessity.”

The research shows men with prostate cancer face a double burden — not just in terms of treatment but in the cost of scans, medications, and private consultations. While 96% of respondents agree prostate cancer has a major impact on men’s quality of life, stigma and cost still create major hurdles in seeking help.

Other key findings show:

  • Nearly two-thirds say stigma around men’s health persists
  • Specialist nurses and support groups are rated as highly important — but under-resourced
  • The emotional and mental health toll of prostate cancer remains underestimated

As part of Men’s Health Week, PCFA is urging Australians to take action by getting tested and speaking to their GP. The organisation is also encouraging people to show their support by joining the national Walk for Him initiative.

“We need to normalise men seeking help, remove the financial barriers, and support early detection,” Ms Savage said.

“Men’s Health Week is the perfect time to take that first step — whether it’s a conversation, a check-up, or joining our Walk for Him campaign.”

To learn more or support the cause, visit: www.walkforhim.org.au

For more information about PCFA and prostate cancer, visit www.prostate.org.au or phone 1800 22 00 99 to speak with a Specialist Nurse.

 

Media Enquiries:
Ryan Van Haalen
M: 0410 403 972

About PCFA

PCFA is Australia’s leading community-based organisation for prostate cancer research, awareness, and support. Our goal is zero deaths in our lifetime.

Statistics

  • Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, accounting for 16% of all cancers diagnosed and for nearly 1 in 3 of all cancers diagnosed among men.
  • Each year more than 26,000 Australian men are diagnosed and nearly 4,000 Australian men will die from the disease.
  • 1 in 5 Australian men are likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
  • Regional men in Australia have a 24% higher risk of death compared to their urban counterparts.
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men are 49% more likely to die of prostate cancer than non-Indigenous men.