A lighthearted joke during a holiday led two brothers to get tested for prostate cancer, resulting in early diagnoses and treatment.
Surrey: Two brothers found themselves on a similar health journey after a joke during a lads’ holiday made them think about their health. Alan Powell, 66, was the first to get tested after a casual comment about how often men of their age visit the loo. He had no symptoms but decided to take a PSA test, which led to a shocking cancer diagnosis.
Just months later, his brother Keith, 68, was inspired by Alan’s experience to get tested himself. Both ended up having surgeries at the same hospital, with the same surgeon, and they feel lucky to have caught their cancers early. Keith expressed gratitude for Alan’s decision to get tested, saying it might have saved both their lives.
Alan shared that he was completely taken aback by his diagnosis, especially since he considered himself active and healthy. After his diagnosis, he underwent an MRI and a biopsy, confirming the cancer. Keith, who had previously battled skin cancer, was relieved to have Alan’s support during his own surgery.
Consultant Urological Surgeon Wissam Abou-Chedid performed both operations and highlighted the importance of family history in prostate cancer risk. He noted that having a relative with prostate cancer increases one’s risk significantly. The brothers’ story serves as a reminder of the importance of regular check-ups, especially for men with a family history of prostate issues.
