Sir Rod Stewart has revealed he has been given the all-clear after being diagnosed with prostate cancer two years ago. The 74-year-old rock legend made the announcement at a fundraising event for the Prostate Project and golf's European Tour Foundation in Wentworth, Surrey, on Saturday.
Speaking at the event, Sir Rod said: 'No-one knows this, but I thought this was about time I told everybody. I'm in the clear, now, simply because I caught it early. I have so many tests.' He urged men to get checked, adding: 'Guys, you've got to really go to the doctor.'
Sir Rod joked to his wife, Penny Lancaster, that he was going to use the evening to 'come out', clarifying: 'It's not what you think. Two years ago I was diagnosed with prostate cancer.' He credited his positive attitude: 'If you're positive, and you work through it and you keep a smile on your face… I've worked for two years and I've just been happy, and the good Lord looked after me.'
He was joined at the event by former Faces bandmate Ronnie Wood, who has previously been treated for lung cancer. 'Somebody up there likes us, Rod,' Wood said.
Prostate cancer kills more than 11,000 men in the UK each year. Early symptoms are often absent, making screening crucial. Prostate Project trustee Tim Sharp said: 'When these high profile celebrities talk about it, it makes a huge difference. If every single man between 50 and 70 went to see their doctor, we would see the number of deaths reduced dramatically.'
