From tackling persistent verrucas to ominous cancer screenings, Dr Jeff answers your health questions

Dr Jeff Foster, the resident doctor on Trending In The News on Sunday, is here to help you with your health concerns.

Dr Jeff, 43, is a GP in Leamington Spa, Warks, and the founder of H3 Health, the UK's first clinic that focuses on hormonal issues for both men and women.

Dr Jeff Foster is Trending In The News on Sunday's resident doctor and is here to help you

Visit h3health.co.uk or email [email protected] for more information.

I've had a verruca for over a year. What can I do?

Mark Crowther from Bermondsey, London, asks Dr Jeff for advice on treating a persistent verruca.

Verrucas are caused by a viral infection that affects a specific area of the skin, resulting in a warty appearance. These can last for several years, spread to other areas, and are difficult to treat.

Over-the-counter treatments often have limited success, so Dr Jeff advises consulting a podiatrist if the verruca is causing significant discomfort. Unfortunately, verruca treatments are not usually covered by the NHS, but options like localised freezing or heat therapies may be more effective than over-the-counter products.

Why do I need tests if I feel fine?

John Walker from Hull raises concerns about undergoing multiple tests after a blood test showed a high level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and an enlarged prostate.

Dr Jeff explains that prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men (excluding skin cancer) and that everyone will likely develop it if they live long enough. PSA tests are used to determine if someone may have an abnormal prostate, but they cannot differentiate between an inflamed, enlarged, or cancerous prostate.

Although PSA testing is not part of the NHS national screening program, it can still be valuable when interpreted carefully. Early prostate cancer may cause a raised PSA level without any noticeable symptoms. By undergoing tests, even if you feel fine, it helps ensure that any prostate cancer is detected early, increasing the likelihood of successful treatment.

Remember, early detection of any cancer leads to better outcomes.