Just been diagnosed with locally advanced prostate cancer.

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Hi everybody,

I was given a PSA test by my GP when I had an episode of diverticulitis. (Never suffered from it before) unfortunately it showed a reading of 8.76. Now 7 weeks later I have had 2 CT scans, a MRI scan and a full bone scan and then a biopsy. Just been told on Wednesday of my dIagnosis of locally advanced prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 9. To be honest, it’s something of a relief and has reduced my fears of something worse. I have already been started on tablets to reduce prostate size and testosterone level. I think the next stage is hormone injections followed by radiotherapy. My head is spinning with all the bombardment of information, but I’m sure I will get used to it. One thing that pops into my head is how much will I now have to pay for travel insurance? The least of my worries I suppose, but it’s something I will have to look into at some point. Anyway, hello to you all. DickyDB.

  • Hello  

    Welcome to the group, although I am so sorry to find you here. Hormone Therapy and Radiotherapy is one of the "normal" treatment paths for Prostate Cancer. The 2 things you need to be aware of are:

    * Hormone Therapy comes with it's own set of side effects, the main 2 being fatigue and erectile dysfunction - there are plenty more. Joy. Try and keep as fit as possible.

    * Hormone Therapy weakens your bone structure and you should have a prescription for Calcium/Vitamin D tablets too,

    Feel free to ask any questions, you will get answers from people who have "been there - done that". You can read my HT/RT journey by clicking on my name or avatar - I did have a few other issues along the way!!

    Travel Insurance is a good one - I have a place in Turkey and joint travel insurance for a year costs £ 780. You will find it to be cheaper once you have completed your radiotherapy. we do have a dedicated group for this and here's the link:

    Travel insurance forum for cancer patients 

    When getting a quote it's best to telephone the provider to get the best quote and to ensure you have told them everything.

    Best wishes - Brian.

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  • Hi  , your attitude that it could have been worse is really good.  PCa is slow growing and treatments are improving all the time.  Holidays are a great focus and having just got my PSA stable again have today booked another one today.  You can view other members profiles if they have completed them, by clicking on their name or avatar.  Can’t help with the insurance.

    Best wishes, David

    Please remember that I am not medically trained and the above are my personal views.