Over three quarters of men found their cancer diagnosis impacted their relationships

Maggie’s conducted the poll to encourage men with a cancer diagnosis to come forward for support.

Over half (52%) of new cancer cases each year are in men*, yet men make up only a third (35%) of Maggie's centre visitors.

The survey, released ahead of International Men’s Day (19 November), found that, of the men polled:

• 46% said their relationship with their partner was most affected
• 29% said their relationship with their children was most affected
• 28% said their relationship with their parents was most impacted
• 26% said it was their friendships that were most affected

Not enough men coming forward for support

Dame Laura Lee, Chief Executive of Maggie’s, said: “At Maggie’s, we know that not enough men are coming forward to get support.

When men bear the pain and worry of a cancer diagnosis alone, it can put a huge strain on their relationships.

“Whether it’s talking about money worries, talking to a professional psychologist to help with stress they might be feeling, or meeting other men in the same situation, it can all make a big difference.

“At Maggie’s, we can give men all that support. But we need everyone’s help to encourage men to talk openly about the impact of cancer on their lives and on the lives of those who love them.”

Over half of men now feel closer to their partner

The OnePoll survey** went on to ask men about the fears, worries and insecurities they face when given a cancer diagnosis. It found:

• over a third (38%) experienced a decrease in intimacy
• a third (34%) experienced an increase in arguments

Yet the survey also found:

• over half (52%) said they now feel closer to their partner or spouse

David (59) from Oldham was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in 2019. He said:

Having breast cancer as a man can be a lonely place.

“Some of the treatment for this can be hormone-based treatment, and it’s not the sort of subject matter that goes down well when talking to other men – especially not down the pub.

“Having cancer has affected all of my relationships.”

George (63) from Lanarkshire was diagnosed with stage 3 head and neck cancer in 2012. This had become stage 4 by 2013.

Following a two-year clinical trial which was ultimately a success and resulted in no evidence of disease, George retreated in on himself.

“Men need that support to talk about cancer and Maggie’s is the place where I can do that.

Maggie’s is a place where I can talk.

_{*Source CRUK}

^{**This online survey of 500 men who have cancer was commissioned by Maggie’s and conducted by market research company OnePoll, in accordance with the Market Research Society's code of conduct. Data was collected between 24/04/2024 and 29/04/2024. All participants are double-opted in to take part in research and are paid an amount depending on the length and complexity of the survey. This survey was overseen and edited by the OnePoll research team. OnePoll are MRS Company Partners, corporate membership of ESOMAR and Members of the British Polling Council.}

Last review: Nov 2024 | Next review: Nov 2027