The Appointment That Could Save Your Life
In the last few years there has been an explosion of interest in all areas of health care. Magazines, talk shows, and web sites provide us with extensive information on the prevention and cure of diseases. Armed with this knowledge, millions of Americans are beginning to make the necessary adjustments in their lifestyles.

Here in our offices we have especially begun to notice the results of this heightened interest in the area of prostate cancer. The development of the PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test and education about this disease have contributed to these results. "Because so many men are getting a PSA test, the number of men who come to us with cancer spread outside the prostate gland has dropped drastically," said Dr. Mark DeGuenther, President of Urology Centers of Alabama.

Despite the progress in diagnosing prostate cancer, we still need to be aggressive in catching the disease in its earliest stages, before it spreads. According to Dr. DeGuenther, the PSA test is so important because many men with prostate cancer have no symptoms at all. This is why the American Urological Association recommends that all men age 40 and over have an annual prostate exam. This annual exam should include a digital rectal exam as well as a PSA blood screening.

Each year, approximately 200,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, but early detection can increase the chance of a cure. The treatment options for men diagnosed with this disease have also increased in the last few years. New types of radiation therapy and less invasive surgery are providing men with the ability to live longer, healthier lives.

All men are potentially at risk for developing prostate cancer especially as they age. Taking time to schedule an examination with your doctor can make all the difference in the world.

In partnership with UrologyChannel.com, "your urology community," we are pleased to feature urological news articles. Please check back often as we update our news section regularly.

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