Prostate exams. The words themselves can send shivers down some men’s spines. Let’s face it, they’re not exactly high on the list of “fun things to do.” But here’s the thing: they’re incredibly important. As someone who cares about your health or your partner’s health, early detection saves lives.
Do some research from trusted sources like ZERO Prostate Foundation (zeroprostate.org). Learn about recent advancements. There are a lot of myths floating around, so busting those with facts can make a big difference.
Smart choices.
Famous or not, knowing your risks and taking action for early detection makes prostate cancer one of the most survivable types of cancer. Nearly 100% of men treated in early stages are around 5 years later.
Unfortunately, even famous guys need a nudge sometimes. Take weatherman extraordinaire Al Roker, for example. When he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, he was open about his experience. “Good news is we caught it early,” he said on the Today Show. “Not great news is that it’s a little aggressive, so I’m going to be taking some time off to take care of this.” His wife, Deborah Roberts, has been a pillar of support throughout his journey.
Baseball legend Joe Torre is another great example. At the height of his Yankees managing career, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. “I was numb when I got the cancer diagnosis,” he’s been quoted as saying, “and I don’t know what I would have done if Ali [his wife] hadn’t been there to get me through it all.” Thankfully, with his wife’s support and early detection, Joe went on to make a full recovery. His story is a powerful reminder that prostate cancer is treatable, especially when caught early. And guess who else became a vocal advocate for prostate screenings? You guessed it, Ali Torre!
Even Hollywood actors aren’t immune. Comedian Ben Stiller is another celebrity who has spoken out about his own experience with prostate cancer. Diagnosed in his 40s, he credits a routine PSA test with saving his life stating, “The bottom line for me: I was lucky enough to have a doctor who gave me what they call a “baseline” PSA test when I was about 46. I have no history of prostate cancer in my family, and I am not in the high-risk group, being neither — to the best of my knowledge — of African or Scandinavian ancestry. I had no symptoms.” His story highlights the importance of early screening, even for younger men.
Knowledge is power
Radiation Therapy is a highly effective treatment for prostate cancer. Radiation therapies have been used for decades to treat prostate cancer. With advancements in technology, radiation treatments are more precise that ever.
Just like Deborah Roberts for Al Roker, Ali Torre for Joe Torre, and countless other partners/family members, by learning all you can — NOT relying on Uncle Lenny – you can make informed choices about your health and get back to your lives.
