Each year many men and their families will discover the dilemma and trauma associated with a diagnosis of prostate cancer and in many cases panic and seek a form of treatment that may have far reaching consequences, without stopping and seeking further advice.

This was almost the situation I found myself in when, in 1994 I was advised that I had an early stage of this disease which is now the most common cancer found in men. In 1995 there were 2670 deaths from this disease. My diagnosis followed a slightly rising PSA blood test from 5.2 to 7.1 over a period of some 15 months and the finding of a "nodule" on the prostate following a digital rectal examination and a later ultrasound and needle biopsy. I had no other indication of any problems.

My GP had referred me to a Urologist/Surgeon and because of my good health at age 64, I was informed by the Urologist that surgery (and major surgery at that) was my option. In requesting other options he tried to convince me that my life expectancy was greater by having the prostate removed, a fact that his graphs did not convince me was correct, and in returning to see my GP I sought the advice of a Radiation Oncologist, and it was this course of treatment that I finally pursued.

Before making this decision, however, I had obtained as much information, scarce as it was then, spoke to other men and being very conscious of what "quality of life" may or may not be after treatment, made my own decision for what I truly believed was right for me. The point of my story is this - Do not panic if a diagnosis of cancer is given by your urologist. Step back after your initial shock, be very positive about your future and return to your GP.

Then discuss the other options available and seek 2nd or 3rd opinions. Watchful waiting, radiation treatment and hormonal therapy are some of these and seek out a support group where experiences from other men and their families can throw much light on your dilemma.

This particular cancer does not play by any rules and its detection and treatment are subject to much medical controversy. In many cases there are no symptoms until it is well established and once it has progressed past the gland itself, surgery is not an option. For men over 50 years of age, or 45 years if there is a family history of prostate disease, it is considered essential to have an annual PSA blood test and digital rectum examination.

Don?t be put off if your doctor is reluctant to have either of these tests carried out - seek one who will and note your annual PSA count. If it rises at a rate not in keeping with your age it could indicate some activity within the prostate requiring further investigation, but not necessarily meaning cancer. Notwithstanding the form of treatment, full and frank discussion should be made with each specialist concerning possible effects of treatment, especially incontinence and impotence and as the patient, you should be armed with all the questions in order to be given definitive answers.

Remember the final decision must be an informed one made by you and not your doctor because it is your life and health that is being determined. There are no guarantees given for any form of treatment, including surgery, that the cancer will not return, but by adopting an absolutely positive outlook, a sensible lifestyle and diet, and not being afraid to share your experience with others, especially in a support group, your expectations for living well should be enhanced.