Veteran radio DJ Les Ross received the unexpected news of his prostate cancer diagnosis, despite not experiencing any symptoms of the disease. Fortunately, Les had been proactive about his health, regularly undergoing PSA blood tests for the past seven years. The recent increase in his prostate-specific antigen levels indicated a potential problem, prompting further investigation. Les, a presenter on Boom Radio, is now sharing his story to raise awareness about the importance of these life-saving tests.
Les, who was honored with an MBE in 1996 for his contributions to broadcasting and charity, reflects on how he wouldn’t have known about his condition if it weren’t for the tests. Discussing his experience, Les says, “I was diagnosed with prostate cancer just four months after Boom Radio started in 2021. I had no symptoms, illustrating how silent this disease can be. I have always enjoyed good health and never felt the need to visit the doctor regularly.”
It was only nine years ago, when Les turned 65, that he received a letter from his GP inviting him for a wellness check. During a conversation with a friend, who had also been diagnosed with prostate cancer, Les learned about the PSA blood test and its potential to indicate prostate health issues. He decided to request the test during his check-up. Despite the nurse’s initial surprise, Les persisted, and the results showed a PSA level of 4.6, which exceeded the recommended threshold of four.
Over the course of seven years, Les continued to monitor his PSA levels through biannual tests. While the numbers increased gradually, his periodic MRI scans showed no sign of cancer. However, just a few weeks after receiving his fourth all-clear MRI scan in April 2021, Les’s PSA levels spiked. His GP immediately referred him for a biopsy.
Les recalls his experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that he expected delays due to the strain on healthcare services. To his relief, the GP recognized the urgency of his situation and expedited the process. The biopsy, conducted in July 2021 at Warwick Hospital, confirmed Les’s prostate cancer diagnosis.
Facing the reality of his condition, Les was presented with two options by the consultant surgeon: six months of radiotherapy or a radical prostatectomy. Considering the severity of his cancer, Les chose the latter option, as it offered a higher chance of eliminating the disease. He underwent a robotic-assisted radical laparoscopic prostatectomy in September 2021.
Les shares his positive experience with the procedure, describing how he drove himself to the hospital and was discharged the following day after a 30-hour stay. The surgery, performed using robotic technology, involved precise manipulation of robot claws controlled by the surgeons on a screen. This advanced approach minimizes invasiveness and promotes faster recovery.
Currently, Les doesn’t require medication but needs to undergo PSA tests every six months to monitor his prostate health. As he continues his work on Boom Radio, Les hopes his story will raise awareness about the importance of early detection and encourage men to prioritize their health through regular screenings.
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