Prostate Health: My Journey Begins

While September is typically recognized as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, I've chosen to recount my experiences during Movember, a month dedicated to supporting men's health initiatives. This platform is crucial as it encourages discussions about topics often considered taboo – including prostate health and cancer.

My journey began almost accidentally in August 2014 during a routine medical examination for my driver’s license. A simple question from my doctor about whether I had ever undergone a PSA test led to an unexpected yet life-altering path. She explained that a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a straightforward blood test that can help detect prostate cancer, particularly for men over the age of 50. My initial score was 4.0 – a concerning, yet not immediately alarming, result.

Over the years, my PSA levels increased, prompting further evaluations and consultations with specialists. By September 2015, my PSA had risen to 10.4, which necessitated a referral to a urologist in Vancouver for further assessment. Little did I know that this would propel me into a maze of medical terminologies, procedures, and emotions.

During my first visit to a urologist in 2016, I learned about the familial links associated with prostate cancer – a revelation that hit home as my father had undergone prostate surgery in the early 90s. With an initial biopsy performed in April 2016 revealing cancerous cells, I was confronted with the stark reality that I had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

The process was overwhelming; I felt fine physically, and despite learning of my diagnosis, I struggled to comprehend the implications. After careful discussions with my medical team, we chose the "watchful waiting" strategy, opting for regular monitoring rather than immediate intervention.

As the years progressed, my health markers fluctuated, requiring additional biopsies, MRIs, and consultations. By March 2019, my PSA had risen significantly, indicating that the cancer was growing. This pivotal moment forced me to confront the fact that I could no longer postpone decisions regarding treatment options – surgery or radiation were now on the table.

Act Now: The Importance of Regular Health Check-Ups

My experience underscores the critical importance of prostate health awareness in men over 40. If you haven’t had a PSA test recently, I encourage you to talk to your doctor about scheduling one. This simple test could potentially save your life and prevent a more serious diagnosis in the future.

As I continue to navigate my health journey, I remain open to sharing my experiences and answering any questions. Men’s health is something we should all prioritize and discuss openly. Together, let’s help break the silence surrounding these vital issues and support organizations like Movember that are dedicated to funding cancer research and promoting men’s health awareness.

Stay tuned for the next installment of my journey as I delve deeper into my experiences and delve into the specifics of living with prostate cancer.