A 56-year-old British journalist has shared how a spontaneous decision to request a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test during a routine doctor visit led to a shocking diagnosis: stage 2 prostate cancer.
The moment that altered his life came at exactly 3:04 p.m. on Tuesday, April 15, during a brief two-minute phone call from his doctor. The words “Urgent Suspected Cancer” quickly followed in a referral letter the next day—confirming what would soon become a rapid and emotional journey through diagnosis and surgery.
Although he had no classic symptoms of prostate cancer—such as frequent urination or erectile issues—the journalist had been feeling persistently fatigued, irritable, and not quite himself. His wife, concerned by his ongoing malaise and emotional shifts, encouraged him to visit his GP. Physically fit, a non-smoker, and someone who maintained a healthy lifestyle, he assumed these symptoms were simply signs of aging.
During the appointment, just before leaving, he casually asked whether it would be worth getting a PSA test. His doctor agreed, and the blood test was scheduled without any alarm. At the time, neither he nor his GP suspected anything serious.
Two weeks later, the unexpected call came. “Your PSA levels are elevated,” said Dr. Mahmood. The word “elevated” echoed ominously in his mind. He didn’t ask questions—he could barely react. Dr. Mahmood referred him to the urology department at Whipps Cross Hospital, assuring him that the language in the referral letter might sound worrying, but was part of standard NHS protocol.
When he shared the news with his wife, the emotional impact was immediate and devastating. “It was the first time I had to tell someone I loved that I might have cancer,” he recalled. Her first question: “What’s your PSA level?” He didn’t know. Later, he retrieved his test result. The score was 18.1—alarmingly high compared to the normal threshold of under 3. This led to an urgent suspected cancer referral.
Within three months, the journalist was officially diagnosed with stage 2 prostate cancer and underwent life-altering surgery. Though used to high-pressure situations in his decades-long media career—including encounters with celebrities like Keanu Reeves, Robert De Niro, and Dwayne Johnson—nothing prepared him for a cancer diagnosis.
Understanding the PSA Test: What Men Should Know
Grace Davey, a specialist nurse at Prostate Cancer UK, provided essential guidance on navigating PSA testing and referrals.
1. How to Ask for a PSA Test
Men over 50—or those over 45 with a family history of prostate cancer or who are Black—can request a free PSA blood test from their GP. While not suitable for everyone, GPs consider clinical factors when approving the test. If refused, men are encouraged to seek a second opinion or speak with a practice manager.
2. How to Prepare for Your PSA Results Call
Receiving PSA results can be anxiety-inducing. Davey recommends taking the call in a quiet, private setting, with pen and paper on hand. Ask clear questions such as:
- What was my PSA level?
- What happens next?
- When is my next PSA test?
Having a trusted friend or family member nearby can also offer emotional support.
3. Interpreting PSA Scores
There’s no universal “normal” PSA number. Levels naturally rise with age, and guidelines vary:
- NICE suggests referral at over 3.5ng/ml for men aged 50–59.
- PCRMP notes most men have PSA under 3.0ng/ml and recommends clinical judgment for referrals.
- A raised PSA level doesn’t guarantee cancer but does warrant further investigation.
Understanding Urgent Suspected Cancer Referrals
An “urgent suspected cancer” referral aims to confirm or rule out cancer within 28 days. This often includes an MRI and, if necessary, a biopsy. Patients are typically referred to a urologist, supported by a specialist nurse throughout.
Discussing such a referral with loved ones can be difficult but is an important step. Davey advises choosing a quiet moment, preparing information, and offering a chronological explanation to help family members understand. Involving loved ones in appointments can provide both reassurance and practical support.
Support and Next Steps
If you’re concerned about prostate cancer, Prostate Cancer UK offers resources and specialist support. Their Risk Information Service is available at 0800 448 0821 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Wednesday from 10 a.m.).
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