Q: Wayne, when and how did do find out you had prostate cancer?

Wayne Swan: First of all, I had a PSA test with my local doctor, and then I went off for a biopsy organised by a medical specialist. The specialist called me one morning - it was a Friday morning, I was sitting in my office by myself - to give me the bad news, and I was devastated. I thought a lot about life. I didn't make any phone calls, I just sat there and thought about it for a long time. It was a bit funny when I think back on it, because my office became very quiet and very solemn, and I think that my staff - who are normally used to me moving around, and talking, and trying to get things done in a hurry - I think they thought that there was something odd going on.

It probably took me a couple of hours to call some friends, and particularly to call my wife, and to talk about it. In short, I was devastated. I didn't know what it meant. I hastily arranged a meeting the following morning - Saturday morning - with my medical specialist, and I thought a lot about life.

Q: What treatment did you receive?

Wayne Swan: I followed the medical advice of my specialist, which was to have a radical prostatectomy. Which is pretty significant surgery- it involves the removal of the entire prostate. It means chopping you up a bit. But it's the one way that you can ensure a long-term future, and a certain recovery.

Q: How much did you know about prostate cancer before you were diagnosed?

Wayne Swan: I didn't know a lot. I had seen the experience of my father, who when he was initially diagnosed was given a pretty good outlook, but unfortunately for him, the cancer spread rapidly into his bones. I watched him die a very painful death. So I was acutely aware of this experience when I was diagnosed, and I guess it coloured my view that maybe this was what happened to all people.

My medical specialist, however, was very reassuring. His advice of a radical prostatectomy was based on his firm view that compete removal was the best insurance against any further complications in the long term.

Q: After you received that diagnosis, did you seek out further information.

Wayne Swan: I certainly did seek out further information - I was diagnosed on the Friday, I saw my specialist on the Saturday, and then I sought a second medical opinion a couple of days later. I know a lot of people feel uncomfortable about seeking a second opinion, but I discussed it with my doctor, and his recommendation to me was to seek a second opinion because that would make me more comfortable with his recommendation. And I was relieved after I sought the second opinion. It made me more comfortable.

I think in this area, the more information that you have, the better you feel about it. And the more relaxed you become with your situation.

Q: And what about life after treatment? What impact has having prostate cancer had on you?

Wayne Swan: It does leave some long-term complications, but none that really affect my lifestyle. I work very long hours. I'm much more conscious now of being physically fit. So I now regularly exercise at the gym when parliament sits, or walk when I'm home in Brisbane. It does have some effect on your body, but nothing which is permanent, or that important.