Message from Dr. Garry Henderson

Here we are soon starting off a new year in the beautiful Costa del Sol. We are fortunate to live or visit here and lucky to be part of such a fun golfing community. When I look at the average age of our golfers I felt it appropriate that I write to all the members to encourage you to get checked for prostate cancer.

In the UK there is no screening program for this. The PSA test has been studied by UK cancer specialists; they do NOT recommend it in men with no symptoms. This remains a controversial issue. In Vancouver one of the top urologists I ever worked with disagreed...

So what else can a guy do? The American Cancer Society recommends an annual Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) — yes, a pain in the arse (!) but this could pick up a hard, craggy, rough feeling prostate which could mean cancer even if the PSA is normal.

Whilst you are at the doctor for this examination have him or her examine your testicles. Testicular cancer has a good cure ratio but early detection offers the best chance. So for that reason all men should do Testicular Self Examination (TSE) once a month...

I realise that in the NHS one of the stumbling blocks with all of this is access to a family doctor. Some GPs may try to dissuade you from doing a PSA test. All I can say is be polite but assertive in your request.

All the best for 2026!
— Garry Henderson