We believe that all men should have access to PSA testing in order to permit early diagnosis of prostate cancer, and that a national screening programme should be set up without delay.
In the past, some – including GPs – have been ambivalent about routine PSA testing because of a fear of unnecessary invasive biopsies and overtreatment.
However recent advances have changed things considerably, and we believe that regular PSA testing of anyone
at risk, or with urological symptoms is advantageous for the following reasons:
- A high PSA reading is now usually followed up with a special MRI scan, avoiding unnecessary biopsies
- New biopsy techniques are being adopted which are better and safer than older techniques
- Many recent advances in treatment of prostate cancer mean that the prognosis following early detection is better than ever
Over 11,000 men die each year of prostate cancer in the UK, and the great majority of these are diagnosed late, and beyond the reach of many of the latest treatments which offer the possibility of cure. Our message to men and to clinicians - backed by the science - is to get tested.
Our role in this is both to urge men to ask for a test, and to make sure they can access a test once that decision is made. If you, or someone you know, is unsure about getting a PSA test, or is having trouble accessing a test, then we can help.
The Graham Fulford Charitable Trust offers local testing events as well as home testing kits, and we wholly support their work.
Next Full Meeting
Our next full meeting is to be held both in person at the Old Leamingtonians Rugby Club CV32 6QP, and simultaneously via Zoom on Thursday January 18th, 5pm to 7pm. You can attend either way, and virtual attendees will appear on a large screen in the meeting room.
If you're not already on the mailing list, please contact Doug for an invitation. As ever, all are welcome to attend.
Local Meetings
Local meetings offer a chance to chat informally over a coffee. The upcoming meetings are as follows:
Stratford-upon-Avon
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Stratford on Wednesday 13th December 2023 at 10.30am
Shipston-on-Stour:
The George in Brailes on Monday 11th December 2023 (please email Frank Cooper for details - frank.cooper8019@gmail.com, or call him on 01608 656799)
Alcester:
The Clubhouse at Great Alne Park Retirement Village B49 6HX on Tuesday 19th December 2023 at 2.30 pm (please let Doug know if attending - badgersett@live.co.uk, phone 07784 545513)
Leamington/Warwick:
The Boston Tea Party, 1A Clarendon Avenue, Leamington Spa, CV32 5QU on Monday 11th December 2023 at 10.30. Please contact Paul Burtonshaw if you plan on attending (email: paul@farmservicesltd.co.uk mobile: 07773 383350)
Autumn 23 "Prostate Matters"
9 Oct 2023
Summer 23 "Prostate Matters"
21 Jun 2023
Jan'23 "Prostate Matters"
24 Jan 2023