Tackling Men's Health

For certain patients, some urologic tests might make sense. For instance, a PSA is a blood test that stands for prostate specific antigen. The level represents the relative risk that a patient has for prostate cancer. Other factors also play a role in terms of relative risk, including family history, the patient's age and other clinical factors. 

“With many cancers, specifically with men dealing with prostate and testicular cancers, there are many categories of treatments that we can offer,” shares Dr. Novak. “We often start out with more of a physical therapy type of approach, depending on the problem, and then move on to medications, and then procedures and surgery.”

There are also treatment options available for patients who have issues with erectile dysfunction. These types of treatments just improve the current function of the patient. In the long-term, diet and exercise leads to better cardiovascular health, which also leads to improved erectile function.

“The best strategy for men to maintain potency through life is to take care of your body, just as you would to try to maintain good heart health,” says Dr. Novak. This means getting daily activity, and eating the right foods, especially those low in saturated fats and high in fiber.”