Free screening day in Westbury shines spotlight on men’s health

More than 120 men took the opportunity to have a PSA blood test at a special screening day organised by Westbury Lions on Saturday 6th September.

The event, held at Leigh Park Community Centre in partnership with the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust, offered free prostate screening for men aged over 40. The tests are designed to help detect the early signs of prostate disease, often before any symptoms appear.

Among those attending included former Wiltshire councillor Suzanne Wickham, who lost her husband Jerry to prostate cancer six years ago, local councillor Gordon King, who has experienced prostate health problems himself and local MP Andrew Murrison.

Suzanne said, “This is an issue so close to my heart. My husband, Jerry, died of prostate cancer six years ago.

“12,500 people die of prostate cancer a year in the UK; it is the most common cancer in men. But the earlier you find it, the easier it is to treat, and that’s why tests like this are so important. I only wish this had been around before.”

Councillor King also urged men to take their health seriously. He said, “Although luckily I did not have prostate cancer, my urology issues highlighted to me the stark fact that an enlarged prostrate can still adversely affect my health & wellbeing. So if you are frequently visiting the toilet or have trouble passing urine get it checked out if you are concerned.

“My problems started when I was doubled up in pain coming back from a conference in Bristol. I thought it was just stomach trouble, but a few weeks later it happened again and I went to a pharmacist who told me to see a doctor.

“It turned out my bladder was retaining 83% of urine, which was backing up to my kidneys. Thankfully it wasn’t cancer, but it highlights how important it is to get your prostate tested.”

Saturday’s screening followed the Lions’ successful appeal earlier this summer to encourage men to book an appointment. Lion Debbie Eardley, who helped organise the day, said the club hoped the project would help ‘remove the taboo’ around prostate cancer and encourage more men to get checked.

“It has been a really successful day and we’re delighted to see 120 men come to get tested.

“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, with over 52,000 new cases every year in the UK. Early detection gives the best chance of successful treatment, and we are hopeful that our event and other like them may ultimately save lives.

“Westbury Lions are very grateful for the support we received from Westbury councillors and Westbury Area Board.”

Pictured at top: Members of Westbury Lions with Suzanne Wickham, Councillor Gordon King, local MP Andrew Murrison and nurses from the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust, who administered the tests.