Living with it: Message to others
Men encouraged others to go to consult their GPs if they had any of the symptoms associated with prostate cancer, even though many of these symptoms are more likely to be associated with other less serious problems. When prostate cancer is diagnosed several men said that it was important to talk to family as well as doctors to get as much information as possible about conventional and complementary treatments. Some emphasised the importance of not being rushed into a decision since many cancers are very slow growing.
For more information on PSA testing the pros and cons see the Healthtalkonline - The PSA test for prostate cancer.
'Don't panic' was one message. There are several different treatments as well as the option of watchful waiting and men advised that it is important to reach one's own decision because the suitability of a particular treatment differs from person to person. Some of those who had chosen surgery considered that the operation was not something that should cause alarm. More general advice was to avoid damaging behaviour such as smoking and stress and to remain active and positive. Some men suggested that there could even be a positive side to being diagnosed if it helps a man to reassess what is really important in life. Some mentioned the importance of raising awareness of prostate cancer and campaigning for more research funding.
Last reviewed January 2012.
Last updated October 2011.
