30 September 2021
Queensland men are being urged to check their prostate with one in six men diagnosed with the silent disease by the age of 85.
In 2018, Queensland Health (Queensland Cancer Register) data showed prostate cancer had represented 27 per cent of cancer cases making it the most common cancer among more than 4700 men. The figure is likely to rise by 2.6 per cent this year based on projected figures.
Statewide Cancer Clinical Network Medical Oncologist Dr Jeffrey Goh, is encouraging men to arrange for regular checks with their GP to get on top of prostate cancer symptoms early.
“Men are usually diagnosed between the ages of 60 and 80 because the early signs of the prostate cancer do not cause any symptoms,” Dr Goh said.
“While it’s good to start having a conversation with your GP about screening for prostate cancer at 50, for men at higher risk of the disease, due to family history for instance, it’s best to start prostate cancer screening between 40 and 45 years of age.”
Dr Goh said there could be several reasons for the anticipated increase in prostate cancer rates including better awareness and early detection.
“We have come a long with technology so that certainly has assisted us to diagnose men at risk of prostate cancer early,” he said.
“Another reason for the expected increase in prostate cancer rates could be that many Australians are returning back home since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic; so their diagnosis could be made here in Australia rather than overseas.
“But lifestyle changes could also play a role such as obesity.”
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Inspector Richard Gorey said he was diagnosed with prostate cancer four and half years ago despite having no symptoms of the silent disease.
“I was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2017 through regular blood tests for Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA). I decided to start testing in my early 40s because I recognised the best treatment for success was based on early detection.
“But all through my testing and right up to the eventual removal of my prostate, I had no signs, symptoms or feelings that anything was up.”
Mr Gorey is encouraging men to speak to their GP and develop an early testing plan for prostate cancer.
“I believe early testing, which resulted in early diagnosis and then a healthy preparation for surgery as well as meaningful discussions with my GP and specialist gave me the best possible chance for a positive long-term prognosis,” he said.
"I would advise all men that I know not to rely on how they feel when it comes to prostate, bowel and skin cancer.
“I believe that I have dodged a bullet by having the tests even though I didn’t feel anything was up. I have never smoked, I don’t drink alcohol, have a good diet and exercise daily but I was not immune to this cancer.
“Get checked.”
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate gland multiply in an uncontrolled way, forming a malignant tumour.
While early prostate cancer usually does not cause symptoms, advanced prostate cancer symptoms can include:
- frequent urination
- pain while urinating
- blood in the urine or semen
- a weak stream of urine or difficulty emptying your bladder
- pain in the back or pelvis
- weak legs or feet
For more information about prostate cancer see Prostate cancer