4 minute read
Business & Leadership: North Oaks Health System
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS SCHEDULE A HEALTH CHECK-UP
It’s no secret that men need to pay more attention to their health. Because the issues they face, like prostate cancer, can be treated and potentially even cured with early diagnosis, it’s important to have regular check-ups and screenings with a healthcare provider.
WHAT MEDICAL ISSUES DO NORTHSHORE UROLOGICAL ASSOCIATES UROLOGISTS SPECIALIZE IN FOR BOTH MEN AND WOMEN?
Board-certified Urologists Stephen Graham, MD, and Brad Lake, MD, with Northshore Urological Associates, specialize in diagnosing and treating urinary tract disorders in men and women, including urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, kidney stones, and trouble with urination. They also focus on the care of the male reproductive system, including prostate health, infertility, and vasectomy. Additionally, they diagnose and treat urological cancers, including adrenal, prostate, bladder, ureter, testicle, and penile.
WHAT ARE DISTINCTIVE MEN’S HEALTH CONCERNS AND WHY IS PROSTATE HEALTH ESPECIALLY VITAL?
Men are affected by the same diseases that can affect anyone — heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, depression. Still, they can experience unique issues such as prostate cancer, prostate enlargement, and erectile dysfunction.
“Many major health risks men face can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle; for example, making healthy eating choices, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising. However, there are some diseases, like cancer, that we cannot prevent. And many risk factors, such as age, race, and family history, are completely out of our control. That’s why we strongly encourage regular check-ups and screenings to help spot diseases or other health issues early when they are easier to treat,” asserts Dr. Lake.
HOW COMMON IS PROSTATE CANCER IN MEN AND WHEN SHOULD THEY BEGIN SCREENING?
Prostate health is particularly important since prostate cancer is one of men’s most significant health risks. About one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime, making it the most common cancer in men, other than skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Prostate cancer can be a serious disease, but it is treatable and potentially curable when caught early. Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men and non-Hispanic Black men. Age-based screenings are an essential part of a man’s overall health. In general, prostate cancer screening is recommended for men beginning at age 45. Screening for younger men and Black men should also be considered based on increased risk factors, including family history.
WHAT ADVANCED TECH AND IMAGING DETECT PROSTATE CANCER AT THIS PRACTICE?
Northshore Urological Associates can diagnose and treat men of all ages, utilizing advanced technology and imaging known as MR Fusion to more effectively and proactively detect prostate cancer. Their skilled providers are also trained to perform minimally invasive surgical procedures using the da Vinci® robotic surgical system to treat prostate and urological cancers. In addition, they offer non-surgical treatment and therapy options.
“We understand that health issues can sometimes be uncomfortable or even embarrassing to talk about. But men especially need to do a better job of educating themselves on the health issues that are unique to us and prioritizing our healthcare needs. The ability to enjoy our lives to the fullest requires regular check-ups and screenings to maintain our health and prevent future issues from occurring,” says Dr. Graham. “At Northshore Urological Associates, we strive to develop trusting relationships with our patients and are passionate about providing them the care they need in a comfortable environment.”
WHY IS SEPTEMBER IMPORTANT FOR PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS AND SUPPORT?
September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise mindfulness about prostate cancer and support for those affected by the disease. Drs. Graham and Dr. Lake urge you to use this time to be proactive and take charge of your health by scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider today.
Northshore Urological Associates is a clinic of North Oaks Health System, treating patients in Tangipahoa and Livingston parishes. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Graham, Dr. Lake, Nurse Practitioners Hannah Fugarino and Kimberly Marcel, or one of our other skilled providers, please call (985) 230-APPT [2778] or visit www.nothoaks.org/urology.
