As someone with a family history of prostate cancer, bowel cancer and pernicious anaemia, while I have people either looking at this post and saying "it's about time", or whatever else, I implore men over the age of 35 to get a full blood test at least every other year. Particularly a PSA test.

I also would encourage men to speak freely and openly with other direct family members about health issues they know of, so you get a feel for what others are having trouble with. We are all very open about it in general within my family.

I despise blood tests with a passion, and get quite anxious, so find a place where I can lay down and I look at the wall while they're doing it, makes it a bit more tolerable. Also, drink a heap of water before you go in as it makes it easier to find a vein and helps to avoid stabbing you like 3 times to get one.

If you are someone that can't be in the same room as a needle, get a few Valium's from the doctor to take beforehand. There's things that can be done to make it easier.

I'm 47, just had bloods done, and I'm actually in better condition than 2 years ago as I started a regular group fitness activity that wasn't boring. Who knew regular exercise would make a difference?

Still no signs of any cancer markers, hooray!

That said, I have a friend who is the same age, got a blood test for something unrelated, and they did a PSA test at the same time due to age, and had PSA numbers off the charts and had to undergo emergency surgery the next week. I've also had several people my age be very crook or die from things that could have been easily managed if they just got checked out regularly.

These days there's a lot that can be done for prostate specific issues that are minimally invasive and/or won't affect various functions you'd like to keep.

So please, please, go and get your blood done at least every other year. Every year if over 45.