Cancer survivor in prostate blood test plea

Keith Davies said he was now back to running twice a week, walking daily and playing walking football

A retired engineer who has recovered from prostate cancer is urging men to get themselves tested for the disease.

Keith Davies, 74, had a blood test at a charity event in 2020 which showed high levels of a protein produced by the prostate gland and further tests went on to confirm cancer in 2023.

He underwent regular blood tests and radiotherapy at the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT) and has now been given the all clear, the trust said.

The grandfather said he was now back to running twice a week, walking daily and playing walking football and encouraged others to get checked and "catch it early".

"I was referred to oncology in December 2023. I had my first hormone tablet that same day followed by a hormone injection three weeks later, every three months."

Mr Davies underwent 20 rounds of radiotherapy, but within a month of completing it, had returned to running 5k and daily walks, the trust said.

Mr Davies said he was now "90-95% back" to how he was

Blood tests measure the level of PSA protein, produced by the prostate gland, and may help detect early signs of prostate cancer.

If a raised PSA level is detected, men may be offered an MRI scan of the prostate to help decide if further tests or treatment is needed.

Mr Davies continued hormone treatment to reduce his testosterone levels, which feeds the cancer.

He had his last injection in October and his PSA is now undetectable, the trust added.

Mr Davies said he was now "90-95% back" to how he was.

"I think it's important for all men over 45 to get tested. It's only a simple blood test," he added.

He said he was indebted to the staff that treated him along with information he was given from Prostate Cancer UK.