04 December 2024

Wagga Wagga Prostate Cancer Support Group spreads the most important message of all

Wayne Lewis, 71, a local member of the Wagga Wagga Prostate Cancer Support Group, doesn’t want men to be put off being tested for prostate cancer simply because they are afraid of doing so.

Wayne was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020.

“We discovered it through a PSA test, which is just a simple blood test – a slight prick in the arm,” Wayne said.

“I was put on a prostate cancer trial for two years, but unfortunately, it didn’t work, so I had to undergo a radical prostatectomy,” he said.

“The surgery went well, but prostate cancer took its toll on me physically. I’m currently experiencing erectile dysfunction, but I don’t regret doing the surgery.

“It’s important to understand that there are heaps of treatment options for prostate cancer.

“Aside from my wonderful family, I found support with the Wagga Wagga Prostate Cancer Support Group. It’s great to have a chin wag with other blokes about it.”

Wayne believed men were putting off getting tested for prostate cancer because they were fearful of the process.

“I have been doing PSA tests, which are simple blood tests, for years. It’s a very simple thing to do, and it saved my life,” Wayne said.

Associate Professor Steven Sowter, a urological surgeon for Riverina Urology, said anyone who had a strong family history of cancer could start PSA tests as early as 40 years of age

“Men with no family history should consider a PSA check from the age of 50,” A/Prof Sowter said.

“In its early stages, prostate cancer may have no symptoms, which is why it’s vitally important to be aware of your risk factors, including your family history.

“The most common symptoms are urinating more, having lower back pain, or you may have difficulty maintaining an erection.”

Wayne said he experienced no symptoms but had a family history of the disease, which is why it was so vital to do a PSA test.

“I now tell my three sons to get their PSA checked. They’re sick to death of me telling them,” Wayne added.

“There needs to be better treatments for prostate cancer, and research is key, so donating to a day like Giving Day is really important.”

Mike Murray, the Group Leader of the local Prostate Cancer Support Group, was diagnosed with prostate cancer 12 years ago and considers himself to be very lucky.

“Early detection is the key to survival. Nowadays, we have technology with MRI scans and good treatment options, but ongoing research is vital,” he said.

“There are too many deaths.”