Author Archives: Bernard Smyth

Retired journalist, ex Fleet Street and managing editor at Home Office, London

New saliva test A new saliva test may help “turn the tide” on PCa, UK scientists claim. It analyses DNA to work out who was born with the greatest risk of developing the disease. But experts say it will be “years” before such tests could be used routinely. See

Robot detects cancer A robot which can take 3D scans deep in the body could revolutionise early cancer detection, say a team of Leeds University engineers. See

GPs back screening 94pc of GPs would support launch of a national PCa screening programme for high-risk men. See

Brave new world? Better tests, better predictions of risk, better treatment – a brave new world for PCas could be on the horizon  See

Successful AGM A successful night on April 29 at BAWA. Committee newcomers were welcomed and here is a short summary for those who weren’t able to attend the AGM. Malcolm Gamlin and Bernard Smyth stood down from the committee, but Bernard is to continue as the website manager. Gordon Comley was elected to the committee […]

Ultra-fast MRI Experienced US radiologists can now identify areas that are suspicious for clinically significant PCa. This helps avoid unnecessary biopsies, but if a biopsy is indicated, the area can be targeted with fewer needles. Only snag is it takes 30 minutes. See

Erectile function hope A more precise form of PCa surgery nearly doubles the chances of men retaining erectile function  compared with standard surgery, according to the first comprehensive trial of the procedure.

Switching off PCa Scientists have found how to “switch off” a molecule which is one of the top five culprits behind PCa. See

Covid vaccines available The national booking system opened for bookings of Covid-19 vaccinations from April 1. Vaccinated people are 40pc less likely to be admitted to hospital for up to two months after vaccination. For more information, including details of local walk-in centres, go to this website  

Learn from others This post contains hundreds of stories and experiences, helping patients learn from others who have been through it before. See here