This week Bridget Hill spoke to us about prostate cancer. Bridget is a prostate cancer specialist nurse working at the South West Cancer Care Centre. Her role is funded by the prostate cancer foundation. Bridget noted that prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer, with one in four men diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lives.
Bridget advised that diagnosis is initially through a PSA blood test rather than a digital rectal exam. Men over 50, men over 40 with a family history of prostate cancer, and men with symptoms should talk to their GP about taking a PSA test. A man’s PSA can be raised for a variety of reasons and so a positive PSA test is followed by a MRI scan and possibly a biopsy if indicated. Treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and active surveillance.
Bridget spoke about the mental health implications of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer. Continence and erectile dysfunction were often difficult for men to deal with and talk about with others.
Bridget also noted that the prostate cancer survival rates in South West Victoria were well below the national average. Early diagnosis is important, so talk to your GP about the PSA test if you fall into an at-risk category.
Bridget advised that eating well and frequent exercise reduced the risk of prostate cancer.
We thank Bridget for taking the time to talk to us about this important issues and thank her for the wonderful work she does in this space. Members who have concerns or questions can contact Bridget for advice or consult the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia website (www.pcfa.org.au).