I totally agree. Colleague of mine had his removed after a chance test in one of those mobile units a few years ago and more recently a BIL who is in his 50s had his removed after a friend of his was diagnosed.

I'd been thinking of having a test for sometime and finally did and fortunately the results were fine. Must say I was disappointed with the doctor in that I had to justify why I should have a test (71 at the time and never had a test) despite some high profile folks having the problem and adverts on the TV.

Chris

Yes All men should begin having yearly PSA blood test from age 50 onward. In my annual health physical exam with blood work for cholesterol levels, glucose levels, and all the other factors affecting our health, my PSA markers were normal though by age 60 I began seeing a urologist. He ordered tests every six months.

In 2019 during a routine biopsy test, I was diagnosed with T1 G1 prostate cancer. Since then, we decided to treat it through active surveillance. Bi-annual PSA blood tests, an occasional MRI, and after six years, the prostate tests stay in an acceptable range. I am 76, watch my diet, activity and weight.

I’m am fortunate to live in Canada where our health care system is superb. My treatments are with no extra costs, the MRI, the visits to the specialist, physical exams & blood tests all are with no added fees.

My urologist gave me the choice to undergo treatments or active surveillance. We are happy with our choice.

Blimey, your health care system is superb. Ours is so variable. I used to attend a Well Man clinic but then that stopped. We get screened for bowel cancer every couple of years but that's it really for men and that stops at a certain age. You either have to get symptoms or ask for a test, no annual checkups for us. My high blood pressure was only picked up because I tried a friend's blood pressure monitor!

If you have a problem and get into the system then the treatment can be very good but it can be a lottery depending where you live. Fortunately we live by a good hospital. But the system is so slow as I'm finding with my wrist problem and no treatment yet and for awhile.

Not prostate however testicular checks should be paramount too. I had testicular cancer at 33 and it was found by chance when in for scans for a different issue. Its not the end of the world if they need to go though as we had sperm removed and have a lovely healthy 3 year old boy. The ongoing for life treatment is rubbing a gel on my shoulders called Nebido which is testosterone or you can opt for a 10 weekly injection instead.

Definitely in the down below department nastiness can hide fairly well so regular checks are a must


Photo is of my little "Leo" controlling his rc boat

We live in southern central Ontario where health care is better than rural areas. Still if you need hip or knee replacement or be seen by an orthopaedic specialist it can be months before you get to be seen. Cancer is pretty quick to get diagnosed and treatment.

Razor! Just had my bi-yearly last week as I have BPH and associated bladder stones. All my levels are good and scans are good. As a caregiver and then a patient, early detection is the key!
I am glad to hear you are doing well and appreciate your reminder to us all!

Razor,
Congratulations on your early diagnosis and successful treatment!
I started getting the "manual" inspection at age 50 during my annual physical.
In 2117, at age 66, my doctor felt something worth investigating.
My PSA was elevated, and a biopsy was done.
The local health care "professionals" recommended some rather radical treatments.
Lucky for me, I live about 2 hours from the Mayo Clinic (arguably the best health care facility in the world!).
I got a referral, and was seen by one of their top cancer Dr.'s.
I underwent chemo and high dose Proton Beam radiation treatment.
To this day, I am cancer free.
I cannot stress strongly enough that any male over 50 years of age should be getting annual prostate exams. Mine saved my life!!!
Dave

Hello All,
Better once too many than once too few, that was what my doctor said.
I had this operation 14 years ago and I am still doing very well today. At a certain age, you just become more cautious.
I wish you all good health and a long life so that we can enjoy your new model boats.
Think positively and keep the sun in your heart!
Yours freshwater sailor and landlubber
Michel-C.

Good to hear from you all on this subject and thank you for the good wishes.

There seems to have been more media awareness recently, as prostate cancer has now surpassed female breast cancer as the most common cancer. This is undoubtedly due to more men asking for routine tests.

In my own case, the tumour was discovered before the cells escaped into the rest of the body, so I didn't need chemotherapy. A few months later and the story may have been different.

The diagnostic process can be a little daunting with several MRI scans, bone scans, hormone treatment and needle biopsy, but the anticipation was far worse than the actual procedures. Don't be afraid of "finding out". Post-radiotherapy monitoring will continue for 3 to 5 years.

Good health to all those who have had positive outcomes and again I would recommend regular PSA tests to all men over 50.

Totally agree Razor, I had regular blood tests, but PSA test not due for another few months, doctor just decided to do it on a whim. Lucky it was, as it was positive, and further tests done in a few weeks and treatment started. Treatment now finished after 2 years, and we wait and see if it worked - but for all of you PLEASE GET CHECKED - it could save your life.

Good to hear it was found in time Luckyduck. We men tend to be a dismissive of illness but from my own experience, prostate cancer can creep up on you.

Success rates, if found early enough, are well in excess of 90% I understand, but vary from case to case.

Please don't take a chance and end up being a statistic.