In a recent episode of “Health Futures: Taking Stock in You,” host Bob Roth engaged in a frank and informative conversation with urologist Dr. Shawn Blick. The discussion, aimed particularly at older adults, covered crucial men’s health topics. Dr. Blick, representing Valley Urological Associates and Arizona Center for Cancer Care, offered valuable insights on prostate health, erectile dysfunction, and cutting-edge treatments.
For the FULL Episode, CLICK HERE.
You can also find this on any of the following podcasts:
Dr. Blick emphasized the significance of prostate health, particularly focusing on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a common condition affecting many aging men, leading to various urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, increased frequency, and urgency. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and management.
Treatment Options for BPH
Dr. Blick outlined several treatment options for BPH, ranging from medication to minimally invasive procedures like UroLift. Medications can help manage symptoms by relaxing the prostate muscles or shrinking the prostate. UroLift, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive procedure that lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, ensuring the urethra remains open and reducing symptoms without cutting or removing prostate tissue.
Prostate Cancer: Screening and Treatment Advancements
Early detection of prostate cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Dr. Blick stressed the importance of regular PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) screenings, recommending that most men start screening at 55. However, men in high-risk groups, such as those with a family history of prostate cancer or African American men, should consider starting earlier.
Prostate Cancer Treatment Options
Advancements in prostate cancer treatment have expanded the options available to patients. Dr. Blick detailed a range of treatments, including:
- Robotic Surgery: A minimally invasive option that offers precision and quicker recovery times.
- Advanced Radiation Therapies: Techniques like IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) and proton therapy target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
- Cryoablation and HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound): Newer treatments that destroy cancer cells through extreme cold or focused ultrasound waves.
Confronting Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects approximately 35-40 million American men, yet many do not seek help. Dr. Blick highlighted the importance of addressing ED, noting that it can significantly impact quality of life and relationships.
Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
While medications like Viagra are effective for some men, up to 40% may not respond to these treatments. For those who do not find relief with medications, Dr. Blick discussed an innovative solution: the penile implant.
Penile Implants: A Revolutionary Approach
Penile implants offer a discreet and effective solution for ED. Described by Dr. Blick as a brief outpatient procedure lasting 35-45 minutes, penile implants allow men to achieve on-demand erections without impacting sensation or function. The recovery period is typically just 1-3 weeks, making this a convenient option for many.
Hope for Advanced Prostate Cancer
For patients facing advanced prostate cancer, emerging therapies provide new hope. Dr. Blick discussed targeted hormone treatments, which focus on blocking hormones that fuel cancer growth. Additionally, groundbreaking approaches like radioligand therapy are showing promise in treating advanced cases by delivering radiation directly to cancer cells.
The episode’s central message was clear: help is available for men facing urological issues. Dr. Blick urged listeners not to suffer silently, stressing that many of these conditions are manageable with modern medical
advancements.
This installment of Health Futures served as a powerful reminder of the importance of regular check-ups and open dialogue about men’s health. As Dr. Blick aptly stated, “Knowledge is power” when it comes to addressing these common yet often underdiscussed health challenges.
The conversation with Dr. Blick highlights the rapid advancements in urology and encourages men to take a proactive approach to their health, fostering hope and empowerment in managing urological conditions.
