"I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006. I visited my GP after watching a television programme about prostate cancer and thought I could be at risk after learning that African Caribbean men are three times more likely to be diagnosed with the disease than white men.

I didn't have any symptoms but I knew a couple of tests were a bit concerning. I'd been on Prostate Cancer UK's website, and knew I could ask for a biopsy, so I did, and it turned out I had early stage, aggressive prostate cancer.

I underwent robotic surgery for prostate cancer in October 2006 at Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital, London and was back at work four weeks later."

What I'm doing now

"Having being diagnosed by chance, I decided I wanted to do something to make other men aware of this disease. I was awarded an MBE in 2008 for my services to the local community in helping young people get off the streets and into worthwhile activities.

It is terrifying to think that I could so easily have carried on without knowing anything about prostate cancer despite the fact that it is the most common cancer to be diagnosed in men in the UK. Luckily my GP was very supportive when I raised my concerns with him and I caught the cancer in time to have successful treatment but it saddens me to think that others may not have this chance.

Ultimately it is up to us men to respect and take responsibility for our health but I needed a lot of support from my friends and family."

Phil Kissi MBE