Know your prostate

Dr Hall said it will be an opportunity to hear from an expert in the field about how men’s health issues can be treated and current recommendations for prostate screenings.

“The presentation is about creating awareness amongst the community about prostate health.

“I will be speaking about two things, including the upcoming changes to guidelines for screenings. The new recommendation is lowering the first screening age from 50 to 40 to get checked, as there has been an increased level found in 40 year olds.

“The aim is to screen people earlier and get their PSA (prostate-specific antigen) level checked.

“There is also the recommendation that more patients get checked via an easy PSA blood test rather than a rectal examination.

“Secondly, for those that have been diagnosed with prostate issues such as urinary leakage and erectile dysfunction, it is important for them to know there are ways for those things to be medically treated.”

Dr Hall said the aim of the talk is to reduce the rate of prostate cancer for men in the district.

Getting prostate conditions diagnosed and treated sooner means any issues can be identified and monitored with better outcomes. There are other benefits, Dr Hall said.

“Also a lot of men have mental health issues associated with prostate related conditions such as urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction which can be diagnosed, and we can give treatments for.

“Gentlemen that might have urinary leakage, it can stop them from doing things like playing bowls or going out and socialising.

“Cancer rates are higher in regional and rural areas, this includes for prostate and colorectal cancers. Is that because people present later in the regions?

“We can better address that question by having people present earlier.

“I give this talk in Bendigo but have often thought about places like Deniliquin. Why should they miss out?”

Nibbles and drinks will be provided on the night. To RSVP for the session, email reception@sandhursturology.com.au.