This post was written based on a presentation by David Pollifrone, MD, PPG – Urology, at the Men’s Health Expo.
Men’s health focuses on identifying, preventing and treating conditions specific to the male population. Unfortunately, one of the biggest hurdles for men can be their avoidance or procrastination in taking care of their health. A Cleveland Clinic survey revealed that men are not seeking as much preventative care as they should and many are delaying going to the doctor. This often means that, when a patient comes to see a urologist, they already have an issue, typically related to urinary, prostate or sexual function.
Managing your health really starts in your early teens. Obtaining and maintaining peak performance in all aspects of physical well-being should start well before you discover a problem. When we see people with no primary care physician, coming in with an issue, we become the first touch for that patient’s health journey.
Testicular cancer
About 1 of every 250 males will develop testicular cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. The average age of diagnosis is 33, though it can be detected in younger and older men.
Early detection rests in these preventive health measures:
- Routine medical visits
- Testicular self-exam (Find guidance here)
- Yearly PSA and yearly rectal exam
A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the protein produced in the cells of the prostate gland. If you have an abnormal PSA, your urologist will likely perform a physical examination, order a repeat PSA for confirmation, as well as other tests. This might include an MRI.
These recommendations can vary based on your unique risk factors, including personal and family health history.
Erectile dysfunction
I tell my patients to ask themselves this question: Can you obtain and maintain erections suitable for sexual satisfaction?
While most people think of erectile dysfunction as an embarrassing or unfortunate occurrence that comes with aging, the inability to get an erection is actually an early sign of cardiovascular disease. On average, men will develop heart symptoms 38 months (about three years) from the onset of erectile dysfunction.
Risk factors for erectile dysfunction include:
- Aging
- Chronic diseases
- diabetes
- hyperlipidemia
- hypertension
- cardiovascular disease
- prostate disease
- depression
- Medications
- antihypertensives
- beta blockers
- thiazide diuretics
- Lifestyle
- Smoking (Read more on the research here)
If a patient has erectile dysfunction, I typically order a HeartSmart CT Scan so that we can try to detect the issue early and get the patient connected to the right services.
Controlling what’s controllable
Health is a game of variables, and the only opponents are yourself and time.
Uncontrollable risk factors
- Age
- Genetics
Controllable risk factors
- Nutrition
- Exercise
- Lifestyle modifications
We can’t get in a time machine and undo or redo decisions from the past. You have to look at what you’re doing now. You have to consider the controllable variables and make positive changes where you can.
Healthy ways to reduce your risk factors include:
- Lifestyle modifications
- Smoking cessation
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Prioritizing mental health
- Optimizing nutrition
Key takeaway
When you notice changes in your urinary or sexual performance, it’s important to take action. Listen to your body. Pay attention. There’s a reason these things are happening. Pick up the phone and be proactive with your health.
If you would like to make an appointment with one of our PPG urologists, please call 260-425-5400.
