Prostate Exam Isn’t a Matter of Dread but Necessary Inconvenience

I cannot refrain from using the word “irresponsible” in describing the article on prostate cancer screening examinations (“A Reason to Dread Prostate Tests a Bit Less,” May 27). As the article points out, the examination consists of a blood test plus a digital rectal examination of the prostate. It describes “one portion” of the examination as “extremely uncomfortable.”

Please allow me to inform all of your readers that the digital rectal examination portion of a prostate screening examination is substantially less uncomfortable than even the minor discomfort of having blood drawn. One reason so many men die of prostate cancer is that too few men avail themselves of periodic screening examinations.

Terrorists, pollution, bigotry and substance abuse are a matter of dread. A prostate screening examination is a matter of inconvenience.

RICHARD BLACKER

Santa Monica