PSA-test
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You can test at home whether you are pregnant, have corona or an STD, but you can recently also see whether you have an increased risk of prostate cancer. A so-called PSA test indicates whether a man has ‘Prostate Specific Antigen’ (PSA), which may indicate prostate cancer. But opinions are divided as to whether it is smart to test for this yourself.
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men. 13,000 men are diagnosed every year. This includes Nik van Zuilen of the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Fortunately, he was there in time and has since recovered. He is happy with the self-tests that are available at the drugstore. “These tests increase awareness and can help men to take action earlier if they have an increased risk of prostate cancer,” he tells Editie NL.
“Every year, as many men die from prostate cancer as women die from breast cancer. So an extra test can’t hurt.” Although, according to him, it does not replace the GP. “Good information in advance about the advantages and disadvantages of such a test is very important. That is why we prefer a PSA test by the GP. The GP also asks additional questions.”
Pressure on healthcare
Men aged fifty and over can be tested for prostate cancer by their GP. According to GP Bernard Leenstra, testing for prostate cancer is really something you should leave to the GP. “It sounds safe, but such a PSA test is not reliable. It is much more complex than that,” he tells Editie NL. According to him, PSA does not necessarily mean that you actually have cancer. “But with a positive test you are shocked and then you put more pressure on the healthcare system. Because they have to fix that. It actually causes pressure.”
He recommends first discussing with your doctor whether a PSA test is necessary. “It is also advisable to always do a rectal examination in combination with such a test. There are quite a few things that do not necessarily need to be consulted by your GP – and can therefore be done with a home test – but this concerns cancer. Always visit us for this. the GP.”
Kruidvat – where the tests have been for sale for a few weeks – tells Editie NL in a response: “It is a test to measure your PSA value and therefore not a ‘prostate cancer test’. A negative result ensures relief from care and a positive result is a means to enter into conversation with the doctor.”
The PSA Test: To Stress or Not to Stress?
Ah, the wonderful world of health tests—where you can find out everything from whether you’re expecting a tiny human, have been trying to cuddle up with Corona, or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, whether you have an STD! And now, gentlemen, the spotlight is on you with the PSA test, where the “P” stands not for “procrastination” but for “Prostate Specific Antigen”—a fancy term that might as well be a secret ingredient for a horrible dinner party!
Prostate Cancer: The Silent Invader
Here’s the headline, folks: Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men. I mean, come on—over 13,000 diagnoses every year! It’s like the unwanted guest who just won’t leave your house. But don’t panic just yet; Nik van Zuilen from the Prostate Cancer Foundation seems to have dodged that bullet. He’s all thumbs-up for the new self-tests available at drugstores, insisting that they raise awareness. Because what everyone needs is another reason to have a conversation about their privates—jolly good!
To Test or Not to Test?
“It’s essential for men to act earlier if they have an increased risk,” Nik says. Good luck getting that conversation started at the pub! But wait, there’s more! He does clarify that while self-testing is cool, you shouldn’t replace your GP with a home kit—it’s akin to thinking a microwave makes you a chef. Talk about setting unrealistic expectations!
Now, let’s talk about my mate Bernard Leenstra, a GP who thinks we should leave prostate cancer testing to the professionals. “It sounds safe,” he says, “but PSA tests are not reliable.” It’s complicated! Just what we need—something else in life that’s complex. So, gentlemen, you might get a positive test result that sends you into a spiral of fear, confusion, and a bit too much Googling—congratulations, you’ve just joined the club!
The Real Cost of Ignorance
It’s a rollercoaster ride, and one wrong turn could lead to piling more stress on our already over-burdened healthcare system. Bernard warns that a positive result doesn’t mean you have cancer, but it might lead you down the road to unnecessary stress. It’s like getting a flat tire and thinking you need a new car! So, instead of rushing to the doctor, have a chat with your GP first. It could save you a boatload of worry!
What About Home Tests?
Kruidvat, the dutiful drugstore, insists that their PSA test isn’t a “prostate cancer test” per se. Rather, it measures your PSA value. In layman’s terms, it’s more of a recommendation to have a chat with your GP rather than a ticket to the cancer doomsday club. You get a negative result—discomfort relieved. A positive result? Well, now you have an excuse to engage your doctor in a conversation about your manhood!
The Bottom Line
Boys, while the PSA test at home might sound like a brilliant idea, consider this your cheeky reminder: Consult with your GP before you start testing yourself in the privacy of your own home! Prostate cancer is a serious matter, and like my old friend Jimmy Carr says, “If you’re going to make a mistake, make it big!” But let’s save the big mistakes for our stand-up routines, shall we?
So, keep your chin up, your test results handy, and remember: laughter may be the best medicine, but proper medical advice is a close second!