Chances are good that you know a man who hasn’t been to the doctor in years. In the realm of healthcare, men often find themselves navigating a maze of misconceptions and reluctance when it comes to addressing their health concerns. Yet, in a world where individual well-being intersects with the broader fabric of community health, prioritizing men’s health is important. To launch this new series, we turned to urologist Arnold Sarazen, MD, who shares about two prevalent conditions and why screenings aren’t just for women.
Why is it crucial for men to prioritize their health?
Dr. Sarazen: When men take proactive steps to monitor and manage their health, they not only enhance their own quality of life but also contribute to the well-being of their families and communities. Prevention and early detection are key in mitigating the impact of various conditions, including prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
What is an important screening for men and why?
Dr. Sarazen: Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men globally. Regular screenings, which may include PSA (prostate-specific antigen) screening via bloodwork, are essential for early detection. Detecting prostate cancer in its early stages significantly improves treatment outcomes and can save lives. It’s recommended that men discuss the appropriate screening schedule with their healthcare providers, especially if they have risk factors such as age or family history.
What about BPH? How does it impact men’s health?
Dr. Sarazen: Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly affects men as they age. While BPH itself isn’t life-threatening, it can lead to bothersome urinary symptoms, including frequent urination, weak urine flow, and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. These symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Men experiencing such symptoms should seek evaluation by a healthcare professional to explore appropriate treatment options. At South County Health, we have just started treating patients with BPH with Aquablation Therapy, and are the only hospital in Southern Rhode Island to offer this treatment option. It’s a truly remarkable,
advanced, minimally invasive treatment that allows our surgeons to use the power of water delivered with robotic precision to provide long-lasting BPH relief without compromise and minimal risk of irreversible complications like incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculatory dysfunction, all with a fast recovery time.
How can communities support men in prioritizing their health?
Dr. Sarazen: Communities play a vital role in promoting men’s health by fostering environments that encourage open dialogue, education, and access to healthcare services. Reducing stigma around discussing health issues, even personal issues such as prostate cancer and BPH, including through conversations such as this one, is also important. By rallying together to prioritize men’s health, communities can create a ripple effect of positive change, ultimately leading to healthier, happier lives for all.
Chief of Urology and Chief of Surgery at South County Health
100 Kenyon Avenue, Wakefield
401-782-8000
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