Prostate Cancer: The Most Common Cancer Diagnosis in Switzerland and Often Taboo
30.10.2025 | from Cancer League Switzerland
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30.10.2025, With approximately 7,800 new cases annually, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in Switzerland. During Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in November, the Cancer League raises awareness and encourages affected individuals to seek help.
Many men know little about prostate cancer or do not talk about it. The taboo is significant, although the disease is widespread. With approximately 7,800 new cases per year, prostate cancer accounts for nearly a third of all new cancer diagnoses annually. Half of those affected are diagnosed after the age of 70. Each year, 1,400 men in this country die from prostate cancer.
Early detection remains an individual decision.
Despite the high number of cases, there are no nationwide early detection programs for prostate cancer in Switzerland. However, several pilot projects are currently underway to gather more scientific evidence for the introduction of such programs. Men at increased risk (e.g., those with a family history) should discuss with their doctor whether early detection screening is appropriate.
Breaking taboos and avoiding loneliness.
Side effects of therapies like incontinence or impotence can dramatically change the lives of those affected. Feelings of shame, fear, or withdrawal from partnerships are also common. 'Not talking about cancer and its consequences makes you lonely,' says Marcus, who received the diagnosis shortly before his retirement. He talks about cancer, incontinence, and impotence as others talk about the weather. He wishes other affected individuals would be more open.
Free information and support.
Accepting help is also difficult for many affected individuals. The Cancer League offers low-threshold and free counseling for affected individuals and their relatives at the regional Cancer Leagues. Those who prefer writing to speaking can contact the specialists at CancerInfo anonymously via email or chat. On the Peer Platform, affected individuals can exchange ideas with like- minded people in a safe environment.
Activities in November.
In November, the Cancer League aims to break the taboo around prostate cancer and make knowledge accessible. It calls on all men to learn about prostate cancer, risks, and symptoms. Patients and relatives should not hesitate to seek support — no one has to face this disease alone. As part of Prostate Cancer Month, various events and activities are organized by regional and cantonal Cancer Leagues: www.krebsliga.ch/agenda.
Contact
Media Office Cancer League Switzerland
Effingerstrasse 40
CH-3001 Bern
T +41 31 389 94 01
media@krebsliga.ch
www.krebsliga.ch
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Cancer League Switzerland
The Cancer League is a national non-profit organization that fights against cancer and supports those affected and their relatives. It is organized as an association and is secular and politically neutral. The Cancer League consists of 18 cantonal and regional leagues and the umbrella organization, the Cancer League Switzerland.
Cancer: today, the disease no longer seems as threatening as it did ten years ago. Treatment options are continuously improving, and hope is growing. Those affected are taking their fate into their own hands, and the effectiveness of cancer prevention is undisputed.
For a world where fewer people are diagnosed with cancer. This is possible if people maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
For a world where fewer people suffer from the consequences of cancer. This is also possible: Today, pain and physical suffering can be influenced.
For a world where those affected and their relatives receive care and support in all phases of the disease and in dying.
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Source: Cancer League Switzerland, Press release
Original article published on: Prostatakrebs: die häufigste Krebsdiagnose in der Schweiz und oft tabu