When we are young and seemingly invincible, out thoughts are not in the least on health issues. Our diet does not seem to matter and unless we are subject to fairly rigid parental guidance, we don't have any question about eating "fast food" on a regular basis. I sometimes wonder if that was a contributing factor to my prostate cancer, which was diagnosed at age 61.

I really had no knowledge of my prostate as long as everything was working normally. However, in my early forties I had a incidence of urinary blockage after taking an "over the counter" cold medication. This was checked out by the medical experts who assured me that my prostate was large for my age but felt normal. This however was an indication that I should, at my wife's prompting get yearly medical exams including the dreaded "digital rectal exam"! The verdict each time was "large but feels normal".

I'd like to share a little, about my own experience with prostate cancer, in the hope that i touch upon something that may be of particular interest to you, or might spur on some questions.

Problems with my prostate began at 64 years of age when I was forced to find a new doctor because of the reluctance of my family physician to give me a proper examination of the prostate. The only symptoms were frequent and difficult urination and I was determined to find out the cause of the problem.

It was after my annual medical at age 58 I received a call from my doctor. The digital exam showed the prostate gland was enlarged but smooth and soft. The result of the PSA came back 7. My doctor was concerned and sent me to an urologist, which took about four months waiting time.

I have a very good friend, the same age as myself and annually we would sit down and compare notes and pat each other on the back. What great shape we were in and how lucky our wives were to have such wonderful specimens as partners.

My prostate cancer experience started when I was 56 years old. Up to that time in my life and still today I enjoy excellent health. I had been having yearly DRE and PSA testing done for more than 7-8 years at the time. I had noticed that I was having more frequent urinations, especially at night.