STEPS TO BETTER HEALTH
physicians have employed an innovative strategy for treating prostate cancer . It ’ s called robotic surgery , or the daVinci™ Robot , used to perform minimally invasive surgery for prostate cancer . Physicians skilled in this advanced form of technology are in control of each procedure , which benefits patients by subjecting them to fewer incisions , as well as less blood loss and pain , and results in a faster recovery . Using robotic technology also helps to prevent the cancer from spreading and avoids damage to the bladder . ( See the Summer 2008 issue of THE CATALYST for more information on robotic technology .)
Sexual health support Increased media attention and advertising of erectile dysfunction ( ED ) medications have spurred more dialogue among men and with their physicians . In the United States , 50 percent of men in their 60s have ED , according to a study in which Dr . Wagner participated as a postgraduate fellow at George Washington University , in Washington , DC , in 2007 .
Sexual health issues can be related to injury or to other health conditions , such as cardiovascular disease , high blood pressure and diabetes . Oral medications are usually effective in treating ED . In advanced cases , a urologist may recommend injectable medications or implants .
“ FDA-approved medications are very safe for the treatment of ED , but they can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure . Men , especially younger men , should
avoid using these medications as an aphrodisiac ,” says Dr . Wagner . “ Men should adhere to the safety precautions and potential side effects , as they are very real and harmful ,” he says .
The specialists at Scott & White hope that more men will decide to take charge of their health , and will then feel as invincible as those who already do . ■
• Schedule routine exams . Make an appointment and keep it . Avoid finding reasons not to go .
• Quit smoking .
Dr . Cain also is an associate professor of internal medicine , the Texas A & M Health Science Center College of Medicine .
Dr . Wagner also is an assistant professor of surgery , the Texas A & M Health Science Center College of Medicine .
STEPS TO BETTER HEALTH
Dr . Cain says there are several steps men can take to better health :
• Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly . Even a few minutes of exercise each day can improve your cardiovascular health .
• Check your cholesterol and blood pressure , and participate in other screenings for disease prevention . Also be sure your vaccinations are up to date .
• Get a good night ’ s sleep . Adding one more hour of sleep each night will improve your health .
• Be safe . Fasten your seat belt , wear a helmet when operating a bike or motorcycle , and practice safe sex .
34 THE CATALYST Spring 10 | sw . org