The current testing system for prostate cancer is failing too many men
I was (and still am) asymptomatic, and have no known family history. I requested a PSA test from my GP following a chance meeting with an acquaintance who had recently been diagnosed with localised advanced prostate cancer – he had originally decided against a test, but was persuaded after learning of Sir Chris Hoy's experience. I am now being treated for localised advanced (high risk) prostate cancer.
Your reports of men having to request a PSA test from their GP several times, even with symptoms, are appalling. A friend of a family member had a similar experience. He had experienced typical symptoms and went to see his GP, who gave him various blood and other tests, but notably not a PSA test. Having sought a second opinion privately, he was then diagnosed with prostate cancer, which has spread throughout his body. I know men who have received an unenthusiastic response from their GP; other men are completely ignorant of the cancer and its symptoms.
The status quo is a disaster for men. I fully support your campaign and your call for better training and awareness for GPs.
Geoff Stevens
Harrogate, North Yorkshire
SIR – I was repeatedly refused the PSA test by GPs on the grounds that the test was too sensitive and unreliable. I eventually managed to persuade a GP to comply, but only because I refused to be placed on statins, which were to be prescribed for no other reason than my age. The results of the test were elevated but, after treatment, at least I am now one of those who will die with, hopefully not of, prostate cancer.
The worst irony of my experience was the revelation, from the nurse specialist who took my family history, that because my mother and maternal grandmother had both died of breast cancer, I was in a higher risk category. Had I known this, I might have convinced previous GPs to test my PSA earlier and maybe even qualified for prostatectomy, like younger friends and relatives with whom I have compared notes, thereby avoiding the unpleasant side effects of radiotherapy.
Dermod Malley
Halstead, Essex
SIR – All men need to be tested for prostate cancer. My husband had no signs or symptoms, but we had lost a friend to the disease, so our enlightened GP ordered a PSA test which indicated that my husband, then 55, had a problem. Our son has been tested since he was 45 years old.
My husband and his specialist fought it for 22 years but sadly he lost his battle in 2019.
Marilla Blenkin
Ashford, Kent
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