COWDENBEATH Rotary Club members were urged to not think twice about getting a test if they have suffered any prostate cancer symptoms, because it could be crucial to head-off one of the biggest killers of men in Scotland.

The guest speaker at last Thursday's meeting was Gary Gibb, a man well known locally for his fundraising efforts for Benarty Gala, who is one of six Prostate Scotland messengers, sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, who seek to make people aware of the dangers of the disease.

He was welcomed to the club by President Hank John, who himself was successfully treated for prostate cancer eight years ago.

Gary said: “It is important for men, especially those over 50, to be aware of the signs of possible prostate cancer.

“These include having to wait when going to the toilet for urine to start to flow; passing urine much more often than previously; stopping and starting when passing urine; and having to pass urine several times during the night.

“If you have these signs don’t hesitate going to your GP who will be able to organise for you to be referred to the urology department at the likes of the Victoria Hospital.

“There you can get a PSA test, which can give the amount of prostate specific antigen in your blood, and can give the specialist a clearer picture if you could have prostate cancer and, if so, then devise the treatment that is needed.”

But he stressed: “Speed is important in all this as it can ensure that a cancer discovery can see treatment started swiftly to tackle the condition.

“It is important that you make the decision yourself quickly, if you feel you have symptoms.”

Hank agreed with Gary’s advice and said that, several years ago, he suffered symptoms and was persuaded to get a PSA test.

He went on: “This showed that my levels were much higher than they should be and it led to me having the treatment which ensured that I am here today, so I would certainly urge anyone who has concerns about any possible symptoms to seek a test.”