9 Comments
User's avatar
Bitter Klinger's avatar

Had my last colonoscopy at 65, my last PSA at 70. I’m now 82, and feeling blessed. “If it be not now, yet it is to come.” I’ve spent zero time worrying about it.

Expand full comment
GEORGE FELDER III's avatar

Glenn: Put me in the "no such thing as 'over treatment'" camp! As you mentioned in the "Pro" reasoning section, IF there is a spike in PSA levels, next thing is an MRI or PET scan of the bladder/prostate area. That will let the physician know almost instantly. The prostate biopsy is a tough call--not only painful, but a huge chance for infections! I would have a scan any time over a biopsy. I simply cannot believe Biden was not tested for over a decade! Somebody had to recommend against it, as if he had been tested, the results might have had to be made public. Also, some of the latest research has shown that higher testosterone levels might even protect against some prostate cancers--in which case testosterone therapy can be administered in addition to the natural testosterone levels.

Expand full comment
Will Davis's avatar

Just had a PSA test and I am 82. Slightly elevated but will have re-checked shortly. May be unnecessary at my age but still...

Expand full comment
Bobbi's avatar

My dad had the PSA tests annually. We were glad he did.

Expand full comment
WBH's avatar

Let's think. People telling us Joe had no tests, also said he was mentally sharp as a tack.

I think he had tests, his cancer was known (likely for 5 years or more), he was expected to beat the "Felon", he was supposed to resign or die, Kackles was supposed to become president.

Expand full comment
Gail W's avatar

I tend to agree with you. I guess they didn’t count on the bitter revenge politics of FJB and “Dr”Jill.

Expand full comment
Gary Jacobson's avatar

PSA testing may also indicate an enlarged prostate, quite common in older men, which interferes with normal urination, and which can be treated with medicine (flomax, etc.) and then surgery (TURP). I can’t fathom why the information shouldn’t be obtained at 70+.

Expand full comment
Rusty Staff's avatar

No need for me to comment. You pretty much nailed it in your last paragraph.

Expand full comment
Michele Gooch's avatar

I say yes for the same reason I still get mammograms in my late 70s. I suspect Joe had cancer already when he ran in 19-20 and kept it hidden. After that, he had no choice but to keep it a secret.

Expand full comment