REGARDING Mike Chalkley’s rather negative view of PSA screening for possible prostate cancer (Letters, April 9) I would like point out the benefits.

Three years ago, aged 66, I had no indications of any problems, but my routine annual blood test showed my PSA level was higher than the year before.

This was the first step of examinations, scans and a needle biopsy. A biopsy will show if there is a cancer and if it is likely to be slow growing or aggressive. This result will indicate what treatment, if any, is advisable.

In my case immediate surgery was vital as the tumour was large, aggressive and on the verge of spreading outside the prostate.

A simple blood test probably saved my life. Side effects are usually temporary, death isn’t.

JOHN TUCKLEY Compton Avenue, Poole