'If I waited for symptoms, I could be dead,' says retired teacher of prostate cancer diagnosis
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A retired Cork-based teacher who had prostate cancer has told how early testing saved his life as he urged men to have regular GP checks.
In Ireland, one in six men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and this rises to one in four among the black community. However early detection can save lives.
Gerry Kelly, an advocate with the Marie Keating Foundation, urged men to talk to their GP about a simple blood test — the PSA — which can detect this cancer.
“If I waited for symptoms, I could be dead now. I say that because 25% of my prostate had cancer and my diagnosis came about as a result of blood tests conducted by my doctor,” he said.
Mr Kelly, from Galway and a long-time resident of Cork, said if the test finds nothing then “good for you” and no harm done.
"If you find something amiss early stages it can be fixed so that you will live, laugh, and love for years to come," he said.
He has written a book on his experiences, .
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An average of 3,980 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. However early detection of the disease is linked with a five-year survival rate of over 93%.
David Galvin, urology consultant at St Vincent’s Hospital Group, and the Mater Hospital said awareness is crucial.
“All men, but especially those whose father, brother or grandfather had prostate cancer, need to engage in early cancer detection from the age of 45 years of age onwards,” he advised.
The risks can be assessed with a prostate blood test known as the PSA. Options for home testing are also available.
“It is important to look after your health and men should make prostate health part of their routine, attending for blood tests every one to two years between the ages of 50 to 70 years,” he said.
The Marie Keating Foundation has launched a humorous video featuring comedians Danny Kehoe and Karl Spain to get families talking about the risks as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month opens today, Monday.
Urology nurse specialist and director of nursing services, Helen Forristal said: "If you are 50, ask your GP to consider checking your PSA levels. If you are between 40-45 with a family history of prostate or breast cancer, have that conversation. It could save your life."
To learn more, visit MarieKeating.ie online.