You At Your Best

It's no secret that men are more likely than women to put off regular doctor visits and important health screenings. But as men approach their 40s and 50s, they may begin to experience age-related health issues that have them seeking — for the first time — the advice of a specialist, such as a urologist. Urologists are physicians who treat health issues of the urinary tract — the kidneys, ureters, urethra and bladder. For men, urologists also treat issues related to the reproductive system and sexual health. Here are three common age-related conditions that a man may want to discuss with a urologist: Prostate Cancer – Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but with early detection it is also one of the most treatable. Prostate cancer has few symptoms, however, so early detection depends on regular screening. The American Urological Association recommends prostate cancer screening in men between the ages of 55 and 70. African American men and all men with a family history of prostate cancer have a higher risk and should talk with their health care provider about screening as early as age 40. Screening for cancer of the prostate — which is a small gland located below the bladder — typically involves a blood test and a physical exam. An ultrasound may also be performed to further check the prostate for signs of cancer. Not all prostate cancers can be found with ultrasound alone. To enhance early detection of prostate cancer, Washington Regional offers the Artemis MRI fusion guided biopsy system, which integrates traditional biopsy methods with technologically advanced imaging. The Artemis system merges an MRI image with an ultrasound image, allowing doctors to better identify tumors within the prostate and take very specific, targeted biopsies of those areas. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia – A man's prostate begins to grow at puberty and continues to grow throughout his lifetime. As the prostate enlarges, it pushes against the urethra and causes weak urinary flow, urinary stream starting and stopping, the need to urinate frequently, or a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder. This enlarged prostate condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH. By age 40, about half of all men will have some form of BPH; by age 80, about 90% of men will be affected. Treating BPH is important to help prevent permanent damage to the bladder or urinary tract. BPH can be treated with medications or, for more severe cases, minimally invasive surgical options. To offer the most advanced minimally invasive options, Washington Regional provides Aquablation therapy — a robotically controlled, heat-free waterjet. Aquablation therapy uses the power of water delivered with robotic precision to provide long-term BPH relief. Erectile Dysfunction – After age 40, many men begin to experience some degree of erectile dysfunction, or ED. Ultimately, more than 50% of men will be affected by this condition. With ED, a man is not able to get and keep an erection. In addition to causing psychological distress and relationship difficulties, erectile issues can indicate the presence of certain medical conditions. Men should discuss erectile issues with a health care provider to determine whether an underlying condition, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, could be the cause. Sometimes simple lifestyle changes are enough to restore erectile function. For instance, recent studies have found that moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise can improve erectile dysfunction. If not, there are many effective medications and treatment options for ED. It's important that men seek care for any symptoms or changes involving the urinary tract or sexual health. Following a urologist's recommendations for lifestyle changes and treatments can help men maintain good health and vitality. To make an appointment at Washington Regional's Ozark Urology, call 479-404-1100 or visit www.wregional.com/ozarkurology. sponsor Content www.wRegionAl.com How a urologist can help Mark Jackson, Md, service chair of urology department at washington regional Medical Center By age 40, about half of all men will have some form of BpH; by age 80, about 90% of men will be affected. sundAy, July 24, 2022 | August - Men's HeAltH youAtyourBest.nwAonline.CoM | you At your Best | 3

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