Prostate Cymru is embarking on the mission as men continue to face difficulties in getting a free PSA test from their GP. This is despite the fact that men with prostate cancer often have no symptoms.
Already, more than 1400 men have been tested so far with 90 of those receiving a red alert following events in Kenfig Hill, Cowbridge, Brecon and Swansea. This means they are advised to visit their GP to follow up. Meanwhile, more than 1300 men have received reassuring news.
There are three further events over the coming weeks, with plans to add a date in North Wales, and the charity is urging men to sign up:
- Sunday 18 May at Carmarthen Athletic Club
- Sunday 1 June at Narberth RFC
- Sunday 8 June at Aberystwyth RFC
The charity is appealing to men aged 50 or over – or those aged 45 or over if they have a family history of prostate cancer or if they are Black – to get tested.
The campaign has been described by Prostate Cymru as “ambitious and costly”. More than 3000 tests will be made available, costing over £100,000. Prostate Cymru is working with sponsors at each event to make this possible while individuals will be asked to donate £10.
One of Wales’ most successful businessmen Alan Peterson OBE was the first to back the campaign and is generously sponsoring the Cardiff event – which will take place at Glamorgan County Cricket Club – after he received a positive diagnosis in 2022:
“I did have some symptoms but men often don’t which is why it’s so important to go and get yourself tested. I do know of men who have been refused a PSA test by their GP but it’s really important to persist.”
Tina Tew of Prostate Cymru says:
“All men over 50 are entitled to a free PSA test from their GP. That drops to 45 if there is a family history or if they are Black. However, we constantly hear of men who have had difficulties in obtaining a GP appointment, and in some cases being refused a test.
“The evidence tells us that if we could make it easier for men to get tested, more men would welcome a test. The Glamorgan Cricket event will be our fifth testing event and we’ve received so much feedback from men, whether that’s from those who now know they need to visit their GP for follow-up tests or from those who now have peace of mind.”
On the day, a specialist nurse and consultant will be on hand to provide more detailed information on the test, and what happens next in the event of a positive test result.
If you would like to register for a test, please email [email protected]
