Hi, folks...
Someone on another list I read mentioned recently that he is 70.... and his
doctor does not do PSA tests on him because "at his age, it wouldn't really
make any difference since PCa is slow growing."  The doctor also told him
that most men develop PCa in their 50s and 60s, so if he doesn't have it by
now, he probably never well.  I've never heard that one, either.

I urged him to have the PSA checked and to keep records of his results over
time.  He replied that he has extensive blood tests done every six
months.... and the doctor said that some of those tests would indicate if
PSA might be high.  If so, the doctor would then do the PSA test.  I've
never heard of *other blood tests* that indicate if PSA is elevated.  Anyone
know if there is any truth to this?  Just for my information.

I know the PSA is just a tool.... but it seems ludicrous to me that there is
a very simple blood test that men can have and a doctor chooses not to do it
on an annual basis.  My uncle was diagnosed at 72.... by PSA... and his
doctor encouraged him to watch and wait.  He died 3 years later.... My dad
was later diagnosed at 72.... and was treated with seeds.... and is still
going strong at 78 with no recurrence.

I asked this guy what the longevity factor in his family was.  He said many
people reached their 90's.  Sheesh.... and his doc is just going to dismiss
this as something that will *probably not happen*??

Thanks for any input...

MikeH
Age 55... four year PCa survivor... LRP 11/21/2002... PSAs still
undetectable