Risk of cancer

Hi,

I recently became worried about prostate cancer after the news of Chris Hoy. I went to the doctor and after he felt a small nodule, I was referred to the Urologist. 

My MRI scan recently came back and I scored a 3 on the Likert scale, meaning that I am likely to go for a biopsy, although I am waiting for a call back from the consultant. 

The MRI scan did not show any issues outside the prostate and I think that the nodule is the only real concern but I am quite panicked as I have heard that prostate cancer in younger men, I'm 42, tends to be more aggressive.

I will obviously know more after the biopsy but very concerned and my mind automatically goes to a bad place, thinking that I am going to be terminally ill. 

Any information or guidance would be greatly appreciated. 

Kind regards, 

Simon

  • Dear Simon,

    Thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to hear you are going through this and I can appreciate it is a worry,  However, the MRI seeing a nodule does not mean you necessarily have cancer, but you will have to get a biopsy done.

    I am afraid that no one can reassure you except to say you do not necessarily have cancer. However, if you did, and even if it were a high-grade type, if it's caught in its early stages it can still be cured. 

    Waiting to get tests and investigations done can be a worry, so I hope you have some support. Try to keep your mind off this, if you can, by immersing yourself in things that will keep you busy.

    Please feel free to get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may also find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline

  • Thank you for the email.

    When I rationalise it, I think there is more chance that I don't have it than I do, so I try to focus on that. 

    I have a lovely family around me who make it so much easier when I do have a wobble, so I am lucky in that sense. 

    I may call the number next week if and when I have a struggle. 

    Thanks,

    Simon.