Many men dealing with changes in urination, ejaculation and/or erections suffer in silence, but one urologist says it shouldn’t be that way.
Dr. Pratik Desai of Potomac Urology is a fellowship-trained urologist with Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center. He wants to change the misconceptions many people have about urologists.
“We treat multiple medical issues in people, from teenagers on. In our practice, we have several sub-specializations. The majority of my patients have prostate issues or they may have bladder or kidney cancer. We also have doctors who specialize in enlarged prostate, uro-gynecological or testosterone issues, sexual dysfunction and much more.”
Dr. Desai says urological health is part of a bigger picture in men’s health.
“The biggest question we get is, ‘When should I start getting checked and when should I come in?’ If there’s something that’s way out of line with your urination- blood in the urine, burning, frequency- those are times for a checkup. In young men, if they have decreased energy, decreased sexual desire, difficulty with sexual function- there may be some underlying issues that we want to look into.”
Prostate Cancer is one of the most common cancers in men with more than three-million cases reported each year. According to the American Cancer Society, several factors go into when you should begin prostate–specific antigen (PSA) testing to screen for the disease.
- Age 50: men who are at average risk
- Age 45: men who are high risk- African American men & men who have a 1st degree relative with prostate cancer
- Age 40: men who at a higher risk- 1st degree relative with prostate cancer at an earlier age*
(*as recommended by American Cancer Society)
“The earlier we evaluate things the more options we have. I tell patients a better understanding of problems in a non-acute setting always gives us the option to treat something, rather than waiting and getting to point where the aggressive option is the only option left,” explains Dr. Desai.
Dr. Desai says education and awareness are key. That’s why Potomac Urology is pleased to have partnered with ZERO for the ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk on June 15. The team raised nearly $160,000 to end prostate cancer.
“Be proactive and involved in your health, whether it’s through screenings and care doctor visits, or there’s a concern and you want to see a specialist directly,” says Dr. Desai. “The most important thing is addressing these issues, which allow us to treat sooner rather than later.”
Recent Stories
What’s On the Agenda? Stafford’s Board of Supervisors Meets January 7, 2025.
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved an additional $472,000 in federal funding to advance the Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project, a critical initiative to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Occoquan. The funding comes through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, bringing the project closer to completion.
The project, which has evolved since its inception, will construct 675 feet of sidewalk along Ellicott Street, connecting Mill Street to Poplar Alley and extending toward Union Street. It also includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps and crossings to address accessibility concerns. The initiative aims to create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly connection between the town’s historic and business districts and the planned Occoquan Greenway trail.
“The Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project is one of several pedestrian improvement efforts we’ve pursued over the years,” said Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta. “This specific project will create a safer, more contiguous connection to Mill Street and the town’s historic and business district.”
All Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) locations are scheduled to open at 1 p.m on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. This delayed opening is due to ongoing impacts from Winter Storm Blair. Library officials advise that opening times may be adjusted further if weather or road conditions worsen.
The CRRL serves residents in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Westmoreland counties, offering various services beyond traditional book lending. The library system provides access to technology, community events, educational programs, and resources like homework help, job search tools, and genealogical research. Its facilities include multiple branches, mobile libraries, and digital collections that can be accessed online.
Patrons are encouraged to check the library’s website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on hours and services.
Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run.
This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy the music and experience the welcoming community at St. George’s.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra, this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
Featuring:
