Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) is using Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to encourage local men to understand their risk of prostate cancer and speak with their doctor about whether prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing is appropriate for them.
Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among Australian men, with around 28,868 men diagnosed each year and almost one in five men expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime.
Importantly, prostate cancer may not cause symptoms when it first develops, meaning regular conversations with a GP and appropriate testing can play an important role in detecting the disease early.
For local man Clyde Hawkins, a simple blood test proved crucial.
Mr Hawkins had no symptoms when his doctor suggested a PSA blood test in 2025, something he had never had. The test led to his prostate cancer diagnosis.
Mr Hawkins went on to undergo a robot-assisted prostatectomy, followed by radiation and hormone treatment through NHW and regional healthcare partners.
“I had no symptoms and had never had a PSA test before. It was only because my doctor suggested I have the blood test that my prostate cancer was found,” Mr Hawkins said.
“My advice to other men, particularly if you are over 40 and have a family history of prostate cancer, is to have that conversation with your doctor and ask about a PSA test. Don’t wait until you have symptoms.”
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia identifies increasing age, family history, genetics and African ancestry as known risk factors for prostate cancer. For people with a family history or genetic risk, its advice is to talk to a doctor about testing from age 40, while those without a family history are encouraged to discuss testing from age 50.
Early detection can make a significant difference. Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia advises that when prostate cancer is detected early, survival rates improve significantly.
Mr Hawkins said the care and support he received throughout his treatment had been exceptional.
“The care provided through Northeast Health Wangaratta was first class. The follow-ups were terrific and the support has continued throughout my journey,” he said.
“What really stood out was that the team wasn’t only focused on treating the cancer. There was a genuine focus on how I was coping mentally and making sure my wellbeing was looked after as well.”
Mr Hawkins said the support of family and friends had also been invaluable throughout his diagnosis and treatment.
“I have some amazing friends who have been a great support, and having your family and friends around you makes an enormous difference,” he said.
“I’m also part of the prostate cancer support group, which gives you the opportunity to connect with other people who understand what you’re going through. You don’t have to go through it alone.”
While a PSA blood test does not diagnose prostate cancer on its own, it can help identify people who may require further investigation. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia describes PSA testing as an important first-line tool for early detection. During Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, NHW is encouraging men to know their family history, understand their individual risk and speak with their GP about prostate health and whether PSA testing is appropriate for them.
For information about prostate cancer or to find a local Support Group, visit www.prostate.org.au or call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.