A state legislator is speaking out about prostate cancer — after having surgery for it one week ago (last Friday). State Senator Daryl Beall, a democrat from Fort Dodge, says prostate cancer is more common that most men realize and they need to get checked, as one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetimes. Beall says “Most old men have prostate cancer. If you live long enough, you’re likely to have it and the older you get, the slower growing it is and generally old men die of something else. In younger men, it’s faster growing and more dangerous.” The American Cancer Society recommends all men beginning at age of 50 should have a prostate cancer “P-S-A” test every year. Those with prostate cancer in their families should start earlier, at age 45. Beall says he’s discovered a number of other legislators who have survived the disease since he was diagnosed. Beall says “Believe it or not, it has been a very affirming time. I have found all kinds of men that have dealt with prostate cancer and have dealt with it in any number of ways, but there’s kind of a fraternity of men who have survived prostate cancer.” The key to surviving cancer, Beall says, is finding it and treating it before it becomes severe. He says “Early detection makes all the difference in the world, and I had actually gone too long. 5 years had intervened since my previous P-S-A. I wish I would have had it done a year or two sooner.” Beall says even though resources are limited, he would like the legislature to do something to better promote early cancer detection. Beall says he is feeling stronger each day and expects to make a full recovery.
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