Engineer diagnosed with ‘silent killer, cancer without a single symptom

A 58-year-old engineer from London has become one of the first people in the UK to be diagnosed with a rare and often ‘silent killer’ type of prostate cancer without displaying a single symptom.

The man, who wishes to remain anonymous, was diagnosed with the aggressive form of prostate cancer after his wife urged him to get a routine check-up. He was found to have a Gleason score of 8, which is considered to be the most serious form of the disease.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with around 47,000 new cases diagnosed each year. However, the highly aggressive type of the disease which the engineer was diagnosed with is particularly difficult to detect.

The man was monitored closely by his doctors, who conducted a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a biopsy. The tests revealed that he had stage-four prostate cancer, which had spread to other parts of his body.

The patient said he was shocked and scared by the diagnosis, but he is now determined to beat the cancer. He said: “I was lucky to have had the support of my wife who knew something was wrong and encouraged me to see my doctor. I’m glad I listened to her.”

He is now undergoing a course of hormone therapy and radiotherapy to treat the cancer.

Dr. James Davies, the consultant urologist who is treating the patient, said: “This case is an important reminder of how important it is for men to get their prostate checked regularly. Prostate cancer can often be a ‘silent killer’ and can go undetected for years, which is why we urge men over the age of 50 to get a PSA test and a biopsy if their results are abnormal.”

The case has highlighted the importance of regular screening and early detection of prostate cancer. With the right treatment, the patient is now making a good recovery and is determined to beat the disease.