For unknown reasons, my original thread has gone funky. This is my second attempt.
In recent days, we learned that King Charles has had a procedure performed for what is apparently an enlarged prostate. And now we learn of the death of Dexter Scott King of prostate cancer at the age of 62.
For the past two years, my PSA level has been consistently high. I have had no symptoms that might make me think something is wrong. I adhere to a healthy vegan diet and pay close attention to my fitness. But after doing some research and in consultation with my primary care physician and my urologist, I am waiting to have a transrectal biopsy to determine if I have prostate cancer. I anticipate a good result, and will update this thread at that time.
I do not advise either for or against having the PSA test. I do hope, however, that this link detailing the biopsy procedures will provide some good information.
People with prostates over 60, that is men and trans women, get yourself checked. Don't wait for symptoms, just a routine check much in the same way that women undergo mammograms as a matter of routine.
Beyoncé is not an ally. Actions speak louder than words, Mrs. Carter. #Dubai #$$$
Testing, starting in your late 40s or early 50s, is key to early detection. A simple blood test for PSA every year or two will catch prostate cancer at stage 1 or 2 when you have excellent treatment options. If you wait until you have symptoms you may well have advanced to stage 3 or 4 at which point your choices are fewer and treatment will be much more intrusive. Prostate cancer is one of a few cancers which is easy to detect early and has excellent outcomes, but the key is you have to see your doctor and you have to get tested. Too many men, are too manly to bother to go to the doctor. Wait until you have symptoms and you may suffer the consequences for being stubborn.
And here is Ben Stiller. Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014. Living cancer-free after the surgical removal of his prostate that same year. And looking GREAT !
Last week I had a transrectal ultrasound biopsy to help determine if I have prostate cancer. The procedure took no more than 15 minutes and was not awful. The Urologist removed 12 "plugs" for examination.
Yesterday I learned that I do, in fact, have prostate cancer. Next up is a PSMA PET scan and an MRI of the prostate to further evaluate any spread of the cancer. What happens after that depends on the results of those scans.
I encourage those men who might be reading this to discuss your prostate health with your doctor during your next visit.
Since last posting here, I have had two procedures: a PSMA PET SCAN and an MRI. Next week I have another test. It seems likely that I will have direct external radiation therapy, but I won't know for certain unitl I meet with a Radiation Oncologist in the near future. If so, I will probably have daily therapy procedures (Monday thru Friday) for 8 or 9 weeks. My only current side effects of any note are fatigue and a bit of pain.
I had no idea that once diagnosed, it would take so long just to have the therapy. But, I am looking forward to a positive outcome.