He Felt Fine. Then Came the Diagnosis

A routine doctor visit uncovered prostate cancer in a healthy young man.

Feeling healthy is a good thing. But as one Louisiana musician discovered, it doesn't always mean everything is fine beneath the surface.

Joseph Wayne Singleton was just 33 when he went to the doctor for a more thorough physical. He felt well, stayed active, and had no symptoms that suggested something was wrong. He expected the visit to confirm what he already believed: that he was in good health.

Instead, one blood test changed his life.

A simple test revealed an unexpected problem

Singleton's wife had encouraged him to schedule a comprehensive checkup rather than rely solely on the routine examinations required to maintain his commercial driver's license.

During the visit, his doctor ordered a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. The test measures a protein produced by the prostate and can help doctors identify potential signs of prostate problems, including cancer.

Singleton's PSA level came back dangerously high. Further testing, including a biopsy, confirmed prostate cancer.

The diagnosis came as a complete surprise. He had experienced no warning signs and had no reason to suspect cancer.

His doctors treated him at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, where he underwent surgery to remove his prostate. Singleton later described his recovery as remarkably good, returning to travel and perform with his band within weeks.

Today, he credits that unexpected test with helping him get treatment before the disease could progress further.

Why men over 50 should pay attention

Singleton's story highlights an important health issue: some cancers can develop without noticeable symptoms, particularly in their early stages.

Prostate cancer becomes more common as men age, making conversations about screening increasingly important for men in their 50s, 60s and beyond.

A PSA test can help identify possible problems, but it isn't perfect. Elevated PSA levels don't automatically mean cancer, and additional testing may be necessary to determine the cause.

Screening also has potential downsides, including false alarms, unnecessary biopsies and treatment side effects. That's why doctors recommend discussing individual risks and benefits before deciding whether to be tested.

Men with a family history of prostate cancer and Black men may face higher risks and may benefit from discussing screening at an earlier age.

Don't wait for symptoms to talk to your doctor

Although routine screening is a personal decision, certain symptoms should never be ignored. These include changes in urination, blood in the urine or semen, and persistent pain in the back or hips.

These symptoms can have causes other than cancer, but a medical evaluation can help identify what is happening.

Healthy habits, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tobacco, support overall health. However, no lifestyle change can guarantee protection against prostate cancer.

Singleton now shares his experience in hopes that others will take their health seriously and ask questions about appropriate screening.

His message is especially relevant as men grow older: don't assume that feeling good means every health concern has been ruled out.

A conversation with your doctor about your personal risk, screening options and medical history could help you make a more informed decision about your health.