The diagnosis was not a surprise — well, yes, it was. Like many men facing a health issue, I had tried to deny it and delay treatment, even though everyone knows that early detection is critical to a cure.
My prostate-specific antigen (PSA) had been slowly creeping up for the past two years. When it reached 9.0, along with a Gleason score of 9, my doctor said it was time to take action. That meant having a prostate biopsy.
The biopsy came back positive for a cancerous tumor pressing against my rectal wall. Two treatment options were explained to me: complete removal of the prostate gland or radiation combined with hormone treatment.
I chose the latter. After 38 radiation treatments, five days a week, my PSA has dropped to zero, and I can confidently say that the little tumor has disappeared. I will remain on a hormone drug for two years.
I share this deeply personal experience in the hope that it will encourage men older than 50 — or younger men who are in a higher-risk group — to get regular checkups that include a discussion of PSA testing with their doctor.
The American Cancer Society estimates 333,830 new cases of prostate cancer and 36,320 deaths in the United States in 2026. About 1 in 8 men will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. Black men face a significantly higher risk of developing and dying from prostate cancer than White men and other racial groups, according to the American Cancer Society.
The cancer has a 99% survival rate when it has not spread outside the prostate, which was the case with mine. Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death among American men, behind only lung cancer. It is important to repeat: Early detection is key, just as it is with breast cancer in women.
In my experience, men are generally reluctant to see doctors, especially when it comes to their prostates and other private parts. However, denial is not a cure, and refusing an examination can allow cancer to progress and potentially spread beyond the point where it can be treated.
Yes, there can be side effects, including urinary problems, constipation and loss of libido. For some men, even a temporary loss of libido may sound worse than cancer. But how does death sound?
I was fortunate to have some of the best doctors one could ask for at the Miami Cancer Institute in Florida. They were confident, reassuring, professional and compassionate. Most importantly, they communicated with me in a language I could understand.
So, come on, men — and you women who love them. Guys, do it for the people who love you, for those who depend on you, and for yourselves. Any embarrassment is minimal and quickly disappears when you realize that your doctors and nurses care about helping you get well.
Once again, however, the diagnosis must be early. That cannot be repeated too often.
It appears I will be around for a few more years to annoy my liberal friends. I am grateful to God, a supportive wife and a tremendous medical team. All were instruments in His healing.
For more health-related news
