Latest news with #Prostate-SpecificAntigen
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
I had routine blood test but got out-of-the-blue diagnosis with no signs before 2nd devastating shock 6 months later
PHARMACY technician Mark McCormick went for a routine blood test but went on to get a shock diagnosis that affects thousands of Irish each year, admitting: "It wasn't on my radar." The dad-of-four, originally from Advertisement 4 Mark McCormick was surprised by the results of a routine blood test 4 Although Mark had no symptoms, there are a number of signs to watch out for Mark's diagnosis came totally out of the blue, having gone to his GP for blood tests relating to a totally separate condition. He told the Irish Sun: "I was diagnosed with prostate "I had gone to my GP for a routine six-month blood test for an unrelated medical condition, and I was very surprised when I received a call from my GP to tell me that my PSA or Prostate-Specific Antigen levels were alarmingly elevated. Advertisement "He referred me to the Rapid Action Prostate Cancer Clinic at the Mater Hospital in "I had no symptoms of prostate cancer and it wasn't even on my radar. "Although I was aware of prostate cancer symptoms, they are very subtle, making it hard to detect." Now 58-years-old, Mark is urging men to get "checked regularly" after being "caught off guard" by his diagnosis. He continued: "This is why men need to be proactive and have their PSA levels checked regularly, especially once they reach the age of 50. It completely caught me off guard. Advertisement "At the Rapid Action Clinic, I underwent an MRI which revealed that I had a tumour and two growths in my prostate. This was very surprising. "Following the MRI, I had a biopsy, which confirmed that the tumour and growths were cancerous. In July 2023, I underwent surgery to remove the tumour." Nearly half of men have no idea where the prostate is During the surgery, doctors made another discovery. Mark said: "Unfortunately, it was discovered that the cancer had spread to my tailbone. This was shocking because my PSA levels had been fine just months before. "Thankfully, the care I received was excellent, and things moved quickly. In September 2023, I underwent radiotherapy to treat the cancer in my tailbone." Advertisement 'DEVASTATING SHOCK' However, Mark's scans in December 2023 revealed further complications. He said: "When I saw my oncologist in January 2024, I was informed that the cancer had spread to multiple areas, including my bones, pelvis, and hip. "It was now classified as Stage 4 cancer, which was a devastating shock. "In February 2024, I started chemotherapy, but I had an allergic reaction during the first session and ended up in hospital for a week. "We attempted chemotherapy again in March and April 2024, but I experienced allergic reactions both times, which meant I could no longer proceed with chemotherapy. Advertisement "Since then, I have been on hormone treatment to prevent the spread of the cancer. "This worked well until December 2024, when scans revealed active cancer in my right hip and lower back." Mark continues to undergo treatments aimed at managing the disease and improving his quality of life. He added: "In February 2025, I underwent further radiotherapy to target those areas. "Then in May 2025, I had a procedure called a rhizotomy, which is a nerve block treatment. Advertisement "This was initially done on my hip, followed by my spine a few weeks later. "At the moment, my prostate cancer is being managed, and we're trying to minimise its spread while I get on with life." Despite his diagnosis, Mark told how he likes to keep busy and owns Dodder Park Allcare Pharmacy in Rathfarnham, Dublin. He said: "On a day-to-day basis, I do try to work every day. It's very important for me to keep some normality in my life. "Prostate cancer isn't like some other cancers - you can live for many years with it if it is managed well by your oncology team." Advertisement 'GREAT HELP' Mark also told how he has received "great support" from the Irish Cancer Society. He added: "Their support line and Daffodil Centres are invaluable resources, offering knowledge, counselling, and advice. "They've been a great help to me." SYMPTOMS OF PROSTATE CANCER ACCORDING to the Irish Cancer Society, about 4,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year in Ireland. This means that one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Prostate cancer can be deadly, partly because it often has no noticeable symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to detect until it has spread. Symptoms usually only appear once the cancer has grown large enough to put pressure on the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the penis (urethra). There are seven symptoms of the disease - many of which could be overlooked: Needing to pee more frequently, often during the night Needing to rush to the toilet Difficulty in starting to pee (hesitancy) Straining or taking a long time while peeing Weak flow Feeling that your bladder has not emptied fully Blood in urine or blood in semen It's important to note these symptoms don't always mean you have prostate cancer. Many men's prostates get larger as they get older because of a non-cancerous condition called benign prostate enlargement. Mark is urging Irish men to take control of their health through regular PSA testing. He said: "Prostate cancer is a growing issue, and men need to become more proactive in getting their PSA levels checked every six months once they reach the age of 50. It's such a simple blood test, but it's vital. Advertisement "The first test establishes a baseline, which helps your GP monitor any changes over time. "Early detection is key, as prostate cancer is very treatable when caught early." Mark believes a nationwide screening programme would help to combat the disease. He said: "There is a pilot screening programme for prostate cancer in Tallaght and St Vincent's hospitals. However, I believe this should be rolled out nationwide. "The Irish Cancer Society is lobbying the government with a pre-budget submission to make this happen. Advertisement "A national screening programme, similar to breast screening and bowel screening programmes, could prevent many cancers from developing. "Men in Ireland need help, and this campaign is essential. "Prostate cancer awareness and screening are crucial, and I strongly believe that a nationwide programme could make a significant difference." Former US president He was seen by doctors after suffering urinary symptoms, with a prostate nodule, or firm area, later being found. Advertisement He was then diagnosed with prostate cancer on May 16, with the cancer cells having spread to the bone. While it is a more "aggressive" form of the disease which is "likely to grow quickly", the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, meaning there is the prospect of "effective management". 4 Former US president Joe Biden was diagnosed with the illness in May Credit: � 2024 PA Media, All Rights Reserved 4 Prostate cancer is the fourth most common cancer worldwide, and the second in men Credit: Getty
IOL News
01-08-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Mobile clinics bring life-saving cancer screening to rural communities
A groundbreaking partnership is bringing vital cancer screenings to South Africa's rural communities. Image: Supplied In South Africa, the challenge of healthcare access is a story of two halves. While urban centres have a network of hospitals and clinics, many rural communities face significant hurdles, often leading to late diagnoses for serious illnesses. This is especially true for cancer, where early detection can make all the difference. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for a staggering 65% of all natural causes of death in our country, a burden that the National Department of Health is working hard to reduce. It is in this context that a partnership is making a real difference: a collaboration between Rio Tinto, PinkDrive, and the National Department of Health to bring essential health screening directly to those who need it most. Starting in late July and running through August 2025, this initiative will see mobile healthcare screening clinics travelling through KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Northern Cape. This comes after a successful outreach in 2024, which laid the groundwork for this expanded mission. Werner Duvenhage, Managing Director of RTIT Africa Operations & RBM, shared his pride in the project, stating, 'We are proud to once again collaborate with PinkDrive to bring these services closer to those who need them most. Through this collaboration we can extend our reach and make a meaningful impact even in areas where we are not physically present. It is an extension of our core values.' The numbers from last year's outreach are impressive, with 7,695 people screened in just two weeks. This year, the goal is even more ambitious: to screen over 12,000 individuals and provide health education to many more. Noelene Kotschan, CEO and Founder of PinkDrive, highlighted the critical need for this type of service, explaining, 'Far too many South Africans are diagnosed late because they simply don't have access to screening facilities. Our model of mobile healthcare has proven both innovative and effective in bridging this gap.' PinkDrive's model is about bringing the healthcare facility to the community, using a fleet of mobile units to provide services that would otherwise be out of reach. The services offered are comprehensive and all provided at no cost. The mobile clinics will be staffed by a team of qualified doctors, nurses, radiographers, and health educators, offering everything from mammograms and pap smears to Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests, clinical breast examinations, and skin and lung cancer screenings. General health check-ups will also be available, with referrals to public health facilities arranged for anyone who needs further care. This initiative is a vital part of South Africa's national health goals, which focus on reducing the burden of NCDs through early detection, prevention, and improved access to care. The funding for this impactful project comes from the Rio Tinto Social Investment Fund, which is dedicated to creating lasting socio-economic benefits in the communities where the company operates. This collaboration is a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can directly improve health outcomes and bring essential services to the doorsteps of those who need them most, making a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of South Africans. IOL Lifestyle
IOL News
26-06-2025
- Health
- IOL News
UMlazi man shares his prostate cancer journey, advocates for testing among Black men
Dumisani Pakkies, a prostate cancer survivor from UMlazi, is challenging stigma and advocating for early detection in Black men. Image: Supplied An UMlazi man who survived stage 3 prostate cancer is using his personal journey to challenge stigma and raise awareness about a disease that disproportionately affects Black men in South Africa. Dumisani Pakkies was diagnosed in 2020 despite having no symptoms. 'When I was diagnosed, I had no symptoms at all. Nothing. And yet, I was already at stage 3. That's why early detection is so important. We must stop being afraid of getting checked. That's the message I want every man to hear,' he said. He began androgen deprivation therapy in January 2021, followed by brachytherapy in February and external beam radiation in July. 'I'm happy to say that I've been in remission since 2022. My PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is now undetectable, just 0.05,' he said. Pakkies urged men to get tested regularly, especially those over 50 or with a family history of prostate cancer. 'There's no use in avoiding the doctor, only to end up in diapers – unable to walk or feed yourself,' he said. He dismissed myths that prostate cancer is a 'white man's disease' or caused by witchcraft. 'If you won't do it for yourself, then do it for your children or loved ones. Let's talk about prostate cancer the same way we talk about soccer, politics, or religion. Because silence is killing us,' said Pakkies. An accountant, Pakkies has become a passionate advocate for early screening, explaining the importance of the PSA blood test. 'A normal PSA level typically ranges between 0.2 and 4. Anything above this may warrant further investigation.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading He also encouraged men not to fear the digital rectal examination. 'It's not as bad as people make it out to be. It takes about 20 seconds but that brief moment could be the difference between dying at 50 or living to 75.' KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane praised Pakkies for his bravery. 'By surviving prostate cancer and sharing his story, he is turning his pain into an opportunity for positive change,' she said. 'We want men to know that their strength is not in how much pain they can hide, but in how much life they are willing to fight for.' THE MERCURY
Hindustan Times
14-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Father's Day 2025: Urologist shares 6 lifestyle tips to prevent prostate and bladder cancer
Father's day 2025: Father's Day, celebrated every year on the third Sunday of June, is a heartfelt tribute to the love, support, and guidance of fathers and father figures. Beyond the celebrations, it can serve as a timely reminder for men to prioritise their health. As they age, health concerns like prostate and bladder cancer become increasingly common, but with the right lifestyle choices, the risk of these diseases can be significantly reduced. Also read | Should men be screened for prostate cancer? Father's Day is the perfect opportunity to not only honour fathers but also raise awareness about the importance of regular health checkups, preventive care, and healthy habits for long-term well-being. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Shalabh Agrawal, consultant, urology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon said, 'Prostate and bladder cancers are among the most common urological malignancies affecting men. While genetics and age play a role, several modifiable lifestyle factors can significantly reduce the risk.' Increase intake of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, especially tomatoes (lycopene), cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower), and leafy greens. Limit red and processed meats – high consumption is linked to increased prostate and bladder cancer risk. Choose whole grains over refined carbs and include foods with omega-3 fatty acids (like walnuts, flaxseeds, and fatty fish). Drink plenty of water daily to flush out toxins from the bladder and reduce the concentration of harmful substances in urine. Avoid sugary sodas and limit caffeine and alcohol which can irritate the bladder lining. Smoking is the leading preventable risk factor for bladder cancer. Chemicals from tobacco accumulate in the urine and harm the bladder lining. Quitting tobacco significantly lowers cancer risk over time. Also read | Oncologists reveal who is more at risk of aggressive prostate cancer, explain why early detection is crucial Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to maintain a healthy weight and improve hormone regulation. Physical activity may reduce inflammation and boost immunity, key factors in cancer prevention. If working in industries involving dyes, rubber, or leather, follow safety protocols and use protective gear to limit chemical exposure. Screenings like PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) tests and urine cytology can help in early detection. Men over 50, or earlier if there's a family history, should consult their doctor for routine screening schedules. Also read | Blood sugar to prostate cancer: Doctor shares 12 health screenings that men should prioritise Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Time of India
09-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Prostate Cancer: The silent killer men over 40 must not ignore
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers found in the aging male population. In India as well, it remains among the most frequently diagnosed cancers. The major concern with prostate cancer—just like many other cancers—is that it typically does not show symptoms in its early stages. There are no specific signs or symptoms that can be directly attributed to prostate cancer. Often, by the time the tumour becomes symptomatic, it has already metastasized—meaning it has spread to other parts of the body. Only then do patients begin to experience noticeable symptoms, prompting them to consult a doctor. Unfortunately, by this point, the disease is usually in an advanced stage. This is reportedly what happened in the case of Mr. Joe Biden as well. In the United States, the screening for prostate cancer has been removed from the national prostate cancer management program. We are now witnessing the consequences of this decision. The issue is that without routine screening, early-stage prostate cancer cases go undetected—cases that could have been successfully treated if caught in time. By the time patients develop symptoms, the cancer is often already in an advanced stage, as was reportedly the case with Mr. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Biden. This highlights the critical importance of screening—not just for prostate cancer but for all types of cancer. Detecting the disease early significantly improves treatment outcomes and patient survival. So, how is prostate cancer screened? The primary method is a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test. The current recommendation is that all men above the age of 40 should discuss prostate cancer screening with their doctor and undergo PSA testing annually. If PSA levels are below 4 ng/mL and the patient has no significant symptoms, annual monitoring is typically sufficient. However, if PSA levels begin to rise, or if a digital rectal exam reveals an abnormal prostate, further investigation is required. This usually includes an MRI, followed by a biopsy and a PSMA (Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen) scan to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cancer's stage. Screening for prostate cancer is extremely important. When detected early, prostate cancer can be effectively treated, as it is generally a slow-growing disease. Early intervention leads to excellent outcomes—improved survival rates, better quality of life, and more effective cancer control. Authored by: Dr. Tarun Jindal, Sr. Consultant UroOncologist and Robotic Surgeon, Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata Gene tests for prostate cancer One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
