Corowa farmer Derek Schoen has opened up about his recent prostate cancer journey, shedding light on the critical importance of early detection, challenging the tendency of rural men to put their health on the backburner.
Four months after his surgery, the 63-year-old says early detection has given him the best possible outcome.
In September last year Mr Schoen began to notice subtle changes in his health, including frequent urination. Concerned about these symptoms, he took the initiative to consult his GP and requested a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test.
The results revealed a startling revelation - his PSA levels had doubled within just 12 months.
Mr Schoen’s GP promptly referred him to a urologist, who confirmed that such a rapid increase in PSA levels could be a cause for concern. Further diagnostic procedures were undertaken, including an ultrasound that exposed a shadow on his prostate, strongly indicating the presence of a tumour.
A subsequent biopsy, performed under general anaesthesia, ultimately confirmed Schoen’s fears- he had prostate cancer.
“I was in denial at first,” Mr Schoen told the Free Press.
“I really didn’t think it could happen to me. While both of my brothers-in-law have had prostate cancer, I had no family history. So that isn’t always a reliable indicator of risk.
“Fortunately, the cancer was found to be classified as low-grade and slow growing.
“There was no urgency but I was adamant that I wanted it removed as soon as possible.
“If I was 10 years older, they probably would have recommended to just leave it as I would probably outlive the growth.”
The procedure, carried out on March 20 of this year, proved successful, with the tumour being confined within the prostate, and his erectile nerves spared, preserving his functionality.
Mr Schoen then underwent a six-week recovery period during which he had to exercise caution.
“The first 10 days I had a catheter which I learnt to empty myself. A bit unpleasant but it wasn’t too bad,” he said.
“You just have to be extremely careful. So, no lifting heavy items. Things like sneezing or yelling at the dog were a bit risky too,” he said.
Mr Schoen also engaged in physiotherapy through Albury Wodonga Health to aid his recovery and help.
“Physio has been extremely important for pelvic floor control post op,” he said.
“My physio also recommended some dietary changes, including avoiding caffeine because it’s a diuretic.”
A check up in June revealed an encouraging outcome for Mr Schoen revealed his PSA levels were at 0, indicating that the cancer hadn’t metastasised.
“I’ll have another check-up in the next month and ongoing monitoring every six months after that,” he said.
“All in all, the entire process is straightforward. My biggest message is, if you suspect you have symptoms, ask your GP for a PSA test.
“A lot of men don’t recognise initial symptoms or have none at all.
“That’s why it’s important to have routine check-ups, especially for those over 50.”
Mr Schoen acknowledged the hesitance some men feel towards medical check-ups addressing the common concern about functionality post-treatment.
“Early detection yields the best possible outcome after surgery,” he said.
“Men might be concerned about erectile dysfunction but there’s plenty treatment options out there.”
According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, there are a range of treatment options such as oral medications, vacuum erection devices, intracavernosal injections and penile implants.
While everyone’s recovery looks different, generally recovery of erectile function from nerve sparing surgery can take between six to 36 months after surgery.
Mr Schoen’s journey highlights the pivotal role early detection plays in ensuring the best possible outcomes for those affected by prostate cancer.
“Men, particularly in our area often put their health on the backburner, but my message is just if you have concerns just get checked. It’s a fairly simple procedure and it could save your life.”