Andrew had no symptoms

Routine pathology testing helped detect two serious health issues.

For Andrew, it began with a blood test that showed a high iron count.

“A subsequent scan for a fatty liver incidentally found calcification of the lining of the gall bladder, which can be associated with an increased risk of gallbladder cancer. I had the gall bladder removed to manage that risk.”

Later, regular PSA blood tests indicated that Andrew may have prostate cancer. A biopsy confirmed Grade Group 5 prostate cancer, the highest Grade Group, and his prostate was removed.

Further PSA tests showed that cancer cells were still present, and Andrew underwent almost seven weeks of radiation therapy.

For a while, his results were good. But when his PSA levels began to rise again, another PSA test followed by a PSMA PET scan revealed more prostate cancer cells. Andrew underwent a further six weeks of radiation and hormone therapy.

The treatment has come with side effects. After his first course of radiation, Andrew experienced bowel bleeding. A colonoscopy later confirmed damage to his colon from the radiation, which worsened during his second course of treatment.

The resulting radiation colitis has affected what Andrew can eat and drink, although it has slowly improved.

“I have been very patient for a long time and don’t want to live on toast, apple sauce, rice and bananas.”

Hormone therapy has also affected Andrew’s quality of life. In March, a blood test showed his PSA level was very good, but his testosterone was almost zero. Andrew decided not to have his next monthly hormone therapy injection and instead planned to have his PSA and testosterone tested again after returning from his annual three-month holiday.

If his PSA begins to rise again, further testing will help determine whether he needs another PSMA PET scan and potentially more treatment.

“In simple terms it means keep having blood tests and when necessary, do a search and then treat again.”

Andrew is also attending Lift Cancer Care twice a week for cardio and resistance training to help maintain his cardiovascular health and muscle mass. This is particularly important during hormone therapy, which can reduce muscle mass and bone density. He also takes calcium with vitamin D to support his bone health.

Neither of Andrew’s health issues had caused symptoms before they were detected.

“I am still alive and kicking, which may not have been the case without these blood tests, because in both cases, there were not any symptoms.”

“Without these tests, I may not be here to write this response.”

Andrew’s story is a reminder of the importance of keeping up to date with the health checks and pathology tests recommended for you.