[movermike] movermike: Prostate Cancer Calls

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Posted by movermike:
Prostate Cancer Calls
http://www.movermike.com/posts/1177549552.shtml


   Once I turned 50, my doctor and I talked about my prostate and how
   best to monitor my health. We both decided that the digital exam was
   best and decided not to have the PSA test. The consequences of a high
   PSA number almost requires a biopsy and treatment if the biopsy
   reveals abnormalities. Then when I turned 62 we decided to have a PSA
   test. My first test was in June of 2006 and I tested a 5.2. That is on
   the higher end and the doctor suggested a biopsy. I decided that we
   had no baseline, that I would prefer to be tested in six months. I
   recognized that if the PSA was signaling a rapidly growing cancer, I
   could be in serious trouble in six months, but I decided to take the
   chance.

   I recently had the second PSA test and it came back as a 6.2. No
   arguments from me. When can we schedule the biopsy? Last Wednesday I
   went for the procedure. The doc took 10 samples and today we discussed
   the results. Two of the ten came back as 3-3. I have Prostate Cancer.

   The BIG C. Chevrolet Cranberries, Chocolate Chowder, Carborundum
   Chanticleer, Carpathian Corruption, Chinese Chop Suey, Capitalistic
   Carnivale, Commission Charlie! The "C" is just a letter, but one that
   brings dread. I'm okay so far, however my wife and I will have to
   decide on the correct treatment over the next 30 days. The choices
   are: monitor and do nothing for six months or a year, then another
   biopsy; radiation, either external or with implanted radioactive seeds
   or remove the prostate entirely. All have risks of incontinence and
   loss of sexual function and a variety of side effects.

   Prostate cancer is becoming common in men my age. What has been your
   experience and what was your decision? Lastly, how are you doing
   today?