Over 130 tests carried out as part force-wide prostate screening at North Wales Police

Over 130 tests have been carried out as part force-wide prostate screening project undertaken by North Wales Police.

Despite the Covid 19 outbreak the the Medical Services and Wellbeing team has been using a mobile policing unit to tour the force area carrying out blood tests – the sixth such programme in two years.

Carried out in conjunction with the Graham Fulford charity 134 tests were completed on October 8, which in some cases may have helped to save lives

Head of Medical Services and Wellbeing, Maria Hughes said; “We’re looking after our workforce and this programme is especially important at the moment as people are less likely to attend a surgery during Covid, with a number of results requiring further intervention and treatment.

“Unfortunately presenting to a GP when the symptoms have been evident for some time can impact upon on the eventual outcome.

“Men are less likely to attend for screening, but in a work environment with their colleagues there is the sense of camaraderie, and a chocolate biscuit helped.

“These tests are potentially saving lives and I am delighted with the response of officers and staff with hundreds coming forward to be tested.”

One member of staff who has tested positive said; “If it was not for attending one of the PSA testing sessions my cancer would have gone un-noticed until it was too late.

“The message should be clear – if you are 50 or over, attend a PSA test session, it may save your life and enable you to receive treatment.”

Figures show that more than 2,500 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year in Wales, around 600 die annually while around 21,000 men are living with or have survived prostate cancer in Wales.

North Wales Police is committed to protecting the workforce and implementing preventative healthcare to improve the health and wellbeing to all the staff.