A DOCTOR is calling on men to get themselves tested for prostate cancer after one of her patients nearly died.

Speaking at the launch of National Men’s Health Week, which runs from June 14 to June 20, South Chadderton GP Dr Anita Sharma has urged men to put aside embarrassment and get checked.

Her call is being backed by one of her patients, Eric Richardson, whose life was saved after he plucked-up the courage to mention “problems” with his “waterworks” when visiting Dr Sharma about knee pain in 2006.

Eric said: “I told her that by the time I had finished having a wee and washing my hands, I needed to go again.

“She encouraged me to get a test at the hospital for arthritis and while I was there, get my bloods done to see if I had cancer, too.

“That was followed by scans and a diagnosis of prostate cancer.

“She saved my life.”

Eric was left with serious side effects after having his prostate removed but received ongoing care at Guy’s Hospital in London and was referred for an artificial sphincter to alleviate the problems of incontinence and remove the need for a leg bag.

The events of 2006 inspired Eric and his wife Susan to join a campaign called Prostate Cancer Support Group Oldham to raise awareness of prostate cancer.

In a message to other men who might have symptoms, Eric said: “Go and get tested, now. One simple blood test will either ease your mind or possibly save your life. Get it done.”

Dr Sharma believes that Prostate Self-Assessment tests should be done as part of patient’s usual NHS health check and that treatment, like Eric received in London, ought to be available for all.

She said: “While I am so pleased that Eric has made a full recovery it was wrong that he should have to go to London to get his treatment and the gaps between treatment here and in places like the south east, still exist.

“The most important lesson for men here is that he told me of his condition – albeit as he was leaving the room.

“Prostate cancer is one of the most treatable cancers as long as it is caught early.

“I would remind patients that though we have been under enormous pressure due to Covid-19, we are open and here to help.”