Barry Hearn shares his prostate surgery experience and encourages men to prioritize health checks for early cancer detection
London: Barry Hearn recently opened up about his experience with prostate surgery. He was inspired to get checked after hearing about the BIGGER 180 campaign.
This initiative, started by Paddy Power, aims to encourage men to get screened for prostate cancer. Prostate Cancer UK is leading the charge, teaming up with the PDC World Darts Championship and Paddy Power.
They’re hoping that thousands of men will use the charity’s quick online risk checker. Plus, for every 180 scored at the famous Alexandra Palace tournament, Paddy Power is donating £1,000 to the charity.
At 76, Hearn is still the president of the Professional Darts Corporation. He mentioned that the campaign gave him the push he needed to get checked. “I had a prostate operation two months ago, and it was 100% successful,” he shared.
He’s pretty health-conscious but admitted he needed that little nudge. Hearn stressed that getting checked only takes 30 seconds. “What does it cost? It’s free. Why wouldn’t you? Are you stupid? Do you want to die?” he asked.
He continued, “Sometimes we get caught up in life. But that was the nudge I needed to say, ‘Let’s sort this out.’” Hearn runs Matchroom Sport with his son Eddie, who promotes Anthony Joshua.
He added, “As you can see, I still look wonderful! The message is clear – don’t wait, don’t ignore the signs. Get checked; it could save your life.”
Sir Chris Hoy is also involved in the campaign. The six-time Olympic champion has been open about his terminal prostate cancer diagnosis this year.
At 48, he revealed he has a prognosis of two to four years left. To raise awareness, he’s set to make a special appearance at Ally Pally to present the Ballon d’Art trophy, awarded to the darts player with the most 180s during the tournament.