Life, Style and everything NICE

I am pleased about Darcus Howe's recovery (My battle with prostate cancer, G2, 17 November), and his highlighting the higher mortality rates for black men. I am a 56-year-old white man with advanced prostate cancer that was identified two months ago. I will, hopefully, find out in December whether I will be among the 30% of men at my stage of the disease who survive five years after diagnosis. The diagnosis came as a result of tests for a different minor condition, and if I had been checked earlier I would probably be among the majority who survive prostate cancer. Darcus Howe is right to call on all black men get tested, but from my perspective, I would urge all men over 50 to get themselves checked.

Robert Johnson

Sheffield

• I'm sure Mr Howe would not wish the traumatic perception of events that he relates to deter anyone from getting checked and if necessary treated. Having gone through a similar procedure myself, my own experience has had many positives. One key factor that prevented the diagnosis of prostate cancer feeling like a death sentence is the fact that it is a very treatable form of cancer with a very good recovery rate. I have received amazing, caring treatment from the dedicated individuals who make up my NHS team. Oh and, come on, Darcus, the needle is not that big!

Kris Watson

London

• An interesting approach is in Prostate Cancer: A 21st-Century Perspective by GA Bates. It discusses the social, geographic and scientific aspects of the disease.

Jim Allen

Dibden Purlieu, Hampshire