**‘Gladiators’ Star Giant Urges Men to Take Life-Saving Prostate Cancer Blood Test**
Jamie Christian, better known as Giant from the popular BBC reboot of *Gladiators*, is calling for men across the UK to take proactive steps in tackling prostate cancer by opting for a simple blood test. The bodybuilder and television personality believes that early testing can be crucial in saving lives, particularly as the disease often displays no early warning symptoms.
Giant, whose real name is Jamie Christian Johal, has taken on a prominent fundraising and awareness-raising role on behalf of Prostate Cancer UK. Most recently, he completed ‘The Big Golf Race’, a formidable challenge in which participants can walk up to 26 miles in a single day – the equivalent of four rounds, or 72 holes, of golf. Christian completed the event in less than 15 hours, using the occasion to highlight the importance of regular health checks for men.
This advocacy work is deeply personal for the athlete, following his uncle Colin Tomlinson’s diagnosis and subsequent recovery from prostate cancer eight years ago. Recalling that experience, Christian reflected: “It’s a real eye-opener that cancer can impact anyone, regardless of how fit or apparently healthy they might be. If men aren’t making time for routine check-ups, it might become too late before any signs show.”
Statistically, around one in eight men in the UK will develop prostate cancer during their lives, according to figures from Prostate Cancer UK. The illness occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably, posing a serious risk if left undetected as it can then spread to other parts of the body. Despite these risks, the disease often lacks clear symptoms in its early stages, making preventive testing all the more vital.
One straightforward method of screening involves the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. This check, offered by GPs and described by the NHS, measures the level of PSA in the blood, with elevated results potentially indicating a prostate condition. Christian is keen to dispel misconceptions around the process, stating: “The PSA blood test is a simple, quick procedure, and it really can be the first step in protecting your health. Some men might worry about more intrusive examinations, but knowing that a blood test alone can provide essential information should make the decision easier.”
Christian also discussed the stigma that continues to surround men’s health concerns, particularly with regard to personal issues. “Men, in general, tend to keep things private, and there’s a lot of hesitation around discussing or addressing potential problems,” he said. “But the benefit of spending just a few minutes at your GP surgery far outweighs the risks of ignoring something this serious.”
Experts agree that testing is particularly important for men aged over 50, Black men, or anyone with a family history of prostate cancer, as these groups carry a higher level of risk. For Christian, the message is clear: “Prevention is far more powerful than cure. While we can’t always control the outcome, we can choose to take action and look after our health. A blood test gives you peace of mind – why wouldn’t you?”
The Big Golf Race itself is quickly becoming the UK’s largest golf-based fundraising event, encouraging people to complete marathon-length golf challenges in order to raise awareness and support for prostate cancer research. Christian views the event not just as a sporting feat but as a unique space for men to support each other and share important conversations privately.
Reflecting on the social side of the sport, he added, “Golf courses are actually an excellent place for men to have honest discussions, away from prying eyes. The more men who participate, talk, and become informed, the better the chances of driving prostate cancer death rates down.”
Jamie Christian’s public persona, beginning with his role as Giant on *Gladiators* and a career as the world’s tallest professional bodybuilder, has shifted to include health advocacy and charity work. Having reportedly consumed up to 10,000 calories a day at the height of his bodybuilding career, he now uses his platform to underscore the critical message of early detection.
As Men’s Health Week (9-15 June) continues, Christian’s campaign highlights the urgent need for awareness and action – a message of prevention, support, and hope for men and their loved ones across the country.