William Shatner, the legendary figure from Star Trek, received a distressing diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer following a PSA test that indicated elevated levels. “A doctor informed me that I had a life-threatening condition and that I was going to die,” Shatner stated. At the age of 90, the actor, renowned for his portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk, was compelled to confront the reality of his own mortality. “Ten! My own body had betrayed me,” he reflected.
Further investigation revealed that the testosterone supplements Shatner had been using could potentially be associated with his cancer diagnosis. “I questioned whether I should stop taking the supplements,” he noted, ultimately concluding that it was a “terrific idea.”
Research presents mixed findings regarding the relationship between testosterone and prostate cancer. One study indicates a heightened risk associated with elevated testosterone levels, while another study finds no correlation. Shatner’s situation resonates with this ambiguous evidence.
After discontinuing the supplements, Shatner’s PSA levels returned to normal. “Three months later, I underwent another PSA test, and it had decreased to one,” he disclosed. Nevertheless, the NHS cautions that PSA tests may produce “false positives” and advocates for more comprehensive testing to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
