A message for men over 50: Prostate cancer demands early detection, not denial
Columnist Cal Thomas shares his personal experience with prostate cancer to urge men over 50 to prioritize early detection through regular screenings. He emphasizes that denial is dangerous and that early intervention significantly improves survival rates.
Why it matters
Public health awareness regarding cancer screenings is essential for reducing mortality rates in aging populations.
Print Add us as a preferred source on Google Commentary By Cal Thomas - Monday, August 31, 2026 OPINION:
The diagnosis was not a surprise — well, yes, it was. Like me, many other men with a health issue had tried to deny it and delay treatment, even though everyone knows that early detection is critical to a cure.
My prostate-specific antigen had been slowly creeping up for the past two years. When it reached 9.0 along with a Gleason score of 9, my doctor said it was time to do something about it. This meant a prostate biopsy.
It came back positive for a cancerous tumor pressing against my rectal wall.
Two options were explained to me: a complete removal of the gland or radiation and hormone treatment.
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