Hi Folks, think it has been some years since I last harangued the forum about PCa so no pissing off just yet, girls this concerns you too, as you all have fathers, and most have males in their family or friendship circles over 50 years old (over 40 years old if there is a family history of PCa) so harass the buggers if necessary.
They should go their family GP and request a PSA blood test, including a Free to Total PSA ratio, if they the (Doctor) are not familiar with the free to total PSA ratio, (and not all are) tell them that this is outlined in their booklet “PSA For the General Practioner” it is important to have both tests done which can be taken from the one blood sample, note blood samples should not be taken the morning after an ejaculation or a couple of days after riding a push bike, as either activity will give a falsely elevated reading. After the blood test results are in then a digital rectal examination can also be conducted if required, do not have blood samples taken within 48 hours of a DRE digital rectal examination either. When the test results are in do not be rushed into treatment, I was told back in 1997 that I needed an immediate immediate operation, then the Dr said after a pause “hang on”, then said into his telephone, I thought he was talking to his receptionist, (but proly not) “I have Mr Bob with me and he needs an immediate Prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate) and I am booked up for 2 weeks, (pause) what’s that ? I have a cancellation for next week? that’s great news I’ll tell him, Bob I have a cancellation for next week, do you want me to put you down for this? I said I wanted to explore alternatives first, he indicated that he thought I was an idiot, but I am yet to have any formal medical intervention!
OK I feel better now, got that off my chest, if you are told you need formal medical intervention, join a PCa support group and speak to people who have had a wide range of medical treatments before you decide.