Feb 21, 2022
With Dr. Michael Lutz, M.D., Urology Specialist
Did you know that the most common type of cancer is also one of the easiest to treat if diagnosed early enough? Prostate cancer is highly treatable and often curable in the early stages, but the key is early diagnosis. In the beginning stages of the disease, there might not be any signs or symptoms. That’s why it’s so important for men to have regular screenings; especially if they are high risk based on medical history. A simple blood test can lead to early detection.
My guest today is Dr. Michael Lutz. He is the President of the MIU Men’s Health Foundation, a board-certified Urinary Specialist at William Beaumont Hospital, and partner with the Michigan Institute of Urology P.C. Dr. Lutz speaks with us about male urinary health, the different types of urinary conditions, and how they are treated. He shares suggestions on how men might reduce the risk of prostate cancer and how to stay proactive about their health.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
- Did Dr. Lutz’s background influence his decision to become a urologist?
- Has prostate cancer become more common in recent years?
- When is prostate screening appropriate?
- What are the early signs and symptoms of prostate cancer?
- What are the other tests besides blood tests to examine the prostate?
- Why are men so hesitant to get screened?
- Is a PSA test foolproof?
- What is the prostate’s function?
- Who is most at risk of developing prostate cancer?
- What factors are really important for prostate health?
- What are the preferred treatments for prostate cancer?
- Which treatments have the best outcome?
- What are common urinary problems in both men and women?
- Is cranberry juice really effective for urinary tract infections?
- What is MIU Men’s Health Foundation?
Quotes:
- “The annual amount of diagnoses of prostate cancer is about 190,000 cases in the United States.” — Dr. Lutz
- “Prostate cancer is truly a multifactorial disease.” — Dr. Lutz
- “That’s what makes the disease so challenging because in most cases there are no signs or symptoms secondary to prostate cancer.” — Dr. Lutz
Today’s Takeaway: It’s all too easy to avoid going to the doctor when you aren’t experiencing symptoms, but a vitally important part of an annual medical exam for an adult male should include screening for the prostate cancer antigen. As scary as the thought of a cancer diagnosis may be, it doesn’t have to lead to a worst-case scenario. Survival rates for men with prostate cancer have increased over the years thanks to better screenings and treatment. Remember that every single day is a gift, and we owe it to ourselves to be proactive about our health. I’m Florine Mark and that’s “Today’s Takeaway.”
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