It Really Is Important

You shouldn't play George in Capra's "It's A Wonderful Life" thinking the world would be better off without you or that you don't matter. Do it for yourself, do it for a friend; Find a reason and get screened.

There is discussion now that PSA tests should not be done on men younger than fifty. And should not be done on men over fifty who are not for some reason in a high risk category. I don't understand that logic. It's as if 'they' are willing to lose one family member, of YOUR family, before the remainder of the family should be tested.

The argument is that the test does more harm than benefit. That isn't obvious to me. The claim is that a false positive result causes further testing with a TRUS or even a biopsy. The biopsy is slightly invasive and carries some risk in rare cases. But I don't understand not giving men a choice to test or to treat. If caught early you can be CURED. If not treated you MAY live fifteen years. Or it may be an aggressive form that will not give you fifteen years. But the final years will be hell.

Some argue that it is not imperative to treat immediately. In their argument, treatment may improve in several years to cure it later with far safer methods. They seem willing to make the bet with YOUR life that you will be treatable later or in fact may DIE of some other cause before you die of cancer. How BRAVE and generous of them.

Stay watchful and aware of the politics as well as the science of medicine. Especially your health.
Talk to your doctor about being screened soon.