Skip to main content
Category

Prostate Cancer Care

marketing@ionetwork.com
In Cancer Awareness, Healthy Lifestyle, Prostate Cancer Care

Men’s Health Month: Understanding BPH and Prioritizing Prostate Health

June is Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about various health issues that impact men. One common condition that affects a large number of men, particularly as they age, is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition that affects the prostate gland in men. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra, the tube through which urine flows. As men age, the prostate can gradually enlarge, squeezing the urethra and causing various urinary symptoms.

Understanding the Causes and Risk Factors:

While the exact cause of BPH is still not fully understood, hormonal imbalances and age-related changes are believed to play a significant role. Testosterone, the male hormone, and its conversion into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) have been implicated in the growth of prostate tissue. Additionally, advancing age and genetics can contribute to the development of BPH. Certain risk factors, such as obesity, lack of physical activity, and a family history of the condition, may increase the likelihood of developing BPH.

Recognizing the Symptoms:

It’s essential for men to be aware of the common signs and symptoms associated with BPH. These can include:

  • Frequent urination, especially during the night (nocturia)
  • Difficulty initiating or maintaining a steady urine stream
  • Weak urine flow or a sensation of incomplete emptying
  • Urgency to urinate or a feeling of urgency that is difficult to control
  • Dribbling at the end of urination
  • The need to strain or push to start urination

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly. While BPH is generally non-cancerous, it’s important to rule out other potential prostate conditions, including prostate cancer.

Consider the following strategies to prompt prostate health and minimize the risk and severity of BPH:

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:

Engage in regular physical activity, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and manage stress effectively. These lifestyle choices can contribute to overall well-being, including prostate health.

Stay Hydrated:

Drinking an adequate amount of water can help promote a healthy urinary system. Aim for at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water daily, or more if you are physically active or in a hot climate.

Limit Fluid Intake Before Bed:

Reducing your fluid intake a few hours before bedtime can help minimize nighttime urination, improving sleep quality.

Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Caffeine:

Both alcohol and caffeine can irritate the bladder and worsen urinary symptoms. Moderation is key.

Regular Check-ups:

Schedule routine check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your prostate health, especially if you are at an increased risk or experience symptoms.

Treatment Options:

If you are diagnosed with BPH and your symptoms significantly impact your quality of life, various treatment options are available. These can include medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.

Contact us or talk to your healthcare provider to help guide you in selecting the most appropriate treatment option based on your specific situation.

PROSTATE CANCER CARE

Our caring team of experts are here to provide you with a custom-tailored treatment plan that is unique to your diagnosis, tumor size, location and involvement. Click on the button below to learn more.

LEARN MORE
marketing@ionetwork.com
In Community Care, Dr. Pimperl, Prostate Cancer Care

A Guide to the Veteran Community Care Program at Laurel Cancer Care

The Veteran Community Care program at Laurel Cancer Care provides alternative cancer care options for U.S. Veterans.

The VA Community Care program allows Veterans to stay within their community, and receive the care they need from a local provider.

Who’s eligible for the Veteran Community Care program?

Eligibility for the Veteran Community Care program depends on each Veteran’s individual healthcare needs and circumstances.

Here are some important notes about eligibility for community care:

  • Veterans must receive approval from VA prior to obtaining care from a community provider, in most circumstances
  • Veterans must either be enrolled in VA health care or be eligible for VA care without needing to enroll to be eligible for community care
  • Eligibility for community care will continue to be dependent upon a Veteran’s individual health care needs or circumstances
  • VA staff members generally make all eligibility determinations

Six criteria qualify a Veteran to receive community care. NOTE: Veterans only need to meet one criterion to be eligible.
1. Veteran needs a service not available at a VA medical facility
2. Veteran lives in a U.S state or territory without a full-service VA medical facility
3. Veteran qualifies under the “Grandfather” provision related to distance eligibility for VCA
4. VA cannot provide care within certain designated access standards
5. It is in the Veteran’s best medical interest
6. A VA service line does not meet certain quality standards

How Does the Program Work?

Even if a Veteran is eligible to receive care from a VA medical facility, they are generally still given the option to receive care from their local health care provider.

If a Veteran chooses to receive care from a community provider, they will be connected with a VA staff member who will discuss the patient’s preferences for receiving local care.

Once the patient’s care preferences have been established, they will select a provider within their community.

Your Community Care Provider at Laurel Cancer Care

L. Cameron
Pimperl, M.D.

Dr. L. Cameron Pimperl served in the U.S. Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He was Chief of Radiation Oncology at Wilford Hall Medical Center, the nation’s top Air Force hospital.

LEARN MORE

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Once you have found a community provider who is approved as part of the VA’s network, it’s time for your first appointment. Here are some things you should expect on your first visit.
On your arrival, the community provider should have the appointment, VA referral, and medical documentation on file.

If a follow-up appointment is needed, your provider will need to check to make sure the VA has authorized additional care before scheduling the appointment.

We Accept All Insurances as Part of the Community Care Program

If you think the Veteran Community Care program is right for you or a loved one, call us to see how you can get started, (601) 425-2999.

Our caring team of experts are here to provide you with a custom-tailored treatment plan that is unique to your diagnosis, tumor size, location and involvement. Click on the button below to learn more.

LEARN MORE