When Tony Moore was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of prostate cancer in 2020, he was surprised.
He lived a very active life and was widely regarded as a Fijian athletic legend.
Moore represented Fiji at the South Pacific Games in 1971 in Tahiti and 1975 in Guam, the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch and the 1976 Montreal Olympics.
He was inducted into the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee hall of fame in 2009 for his contribution to athletics.
He was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2010 and, through subsequent annual tests at the direction of his doctor; he was found with a very aggressive form of prostate cancer in 2020.
After being diagnosed with diabetes, he was put on a strict regime of medication and blood and urine tests in March and September every year.
In March 2020, his doctor noted an increase in the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of his blood.
The test was repeated and yielded the same results.
“I was then referred to a urologist who after a digital examination confirmed my doctors’ theory that my prostate gland was very enlarged,” Moore said.
He said the only symptom he experienced was a very slight issue with urine flow.
“It was taking a bit longer than normal to empty my bladder and the change was quite sudden, in hindsight.
“One common symptom which I didn’t experience personally is the need to urinate more frequently.”
The results of a biopsy two months later indicated he had a form of very aggressive cancer of the prostate, just days after retiring.
“I had just turned 68, and I felt that at this point, I had lived my life to the full and that if I could survive cancer, I would be very grateful.
“This diagnosis came literally a few days after I had retired from work.
“Over the years, I’ve heard so many stories like this: people retire, and within weeks or months, they get diagnosed with a serious, often life-threatening, illness.
“Life can be cruel, but I remained fairly philosophical about my situation.”
A medical team at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, who meet fortnightly to discuss potentially complex cases in their care at the hospital, recommended surgical removal of Moore’s prostate gland.
“My case was discussed, and it was agreed that this was an early-onset situation, but that the type of cancer was extremely aggressive.”
While the presence of symptoms might not automatically translate into cancer, he felt the early diagnosis was instrumental in his treatment.
“The earlier the detection, the better your chances of survival. It is that simple.
“Fear is the enemy, not wanting to know loses you valuable time. Information is power. Arm yourself accordingly.
“See a doctor and ask for the PSA test. It may cost a fee but think of that fee as insurance if you’re in the clear, and a lifesaver if you have an early cancer diagnosis.”
For most men, the thought of a finger being inserted into their anus is too much to bear, but Moore says this is the biggest myth about prostate cancer because of the ability to test PSA levels through blood samples.
“The very thought sends shivers up most men’s spines!
“A simple blood test of your PSA level is the best starting point and if the number is outside of the prescribed range of ‘normal’, then the doctor will advise you of the next steps which may involve further tests, improvements to diet for weight loss, an exercise program, drugs and possibly surgery.”
What he says got him through the ordeal was his family’s love and support and the prospect of enjoying his retirement with them.
“Do not underestimate the love your family has for you.
“To have symptoms and not investigate, is potentially putting all of you through an ordeal that may be easily resolved if acted on quickly.”
