June is Men’s Health Month. It’s a chance to educate and remind men to take better care of themselves.
According to the American Cancer Society, Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer among men (outside of skin cancer).
We asked Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center Urologist Shawn H. Marhamati, MD, MS, to share some important tips about screenings and testing – to help men live their healthiest lives.
When should men start screening for prostate cancer?
Men should strongly consider being screened or at least discuss the benefits and risks of screening with their doctor between the ages of 55-75 and as early as 45 in African-American men or those with a history of prostate cancer.
What is a PSA test, and what does it entail?
PSA, or Prostate-Specific Antigen, is a simple blood test that measures the presence of PSA circulating in your bloodstream. This test is usually the first step in screening for prostate cancer.
However, the PSA screening by itself cannot tell you if cancer is present. Patients with elevated or rising PSA values should be referred to a urologist for additional screening tools such as a digital rectal exam, an imaging study called a prostate MRI, and additional blood testing such as a 4K score which can identify the patient-specific probability of finding an aggressive form of prostate cancer during a biopsy.
This information can help a patient and his urologist makes a shared decision on whether or not to perform a prostate biopsy.
The numbers of diagnoses and deaths from prostate cancer in African-American men are higher than ever – why is that? Is there anything men can do to keep this from happening?
African-American men are at an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. One in seven African-American men will develop prostate cancer in his lifetime. Overall, African-American men are 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than white men. There is no clear reason for these differences. However, there may likely be a correlation between socioeconomic status and racial bias in preventative care. It has been found they are less likely than white men to be offered the option of having a PSA test.
To find a Primary Care Provider or Urologist, please call 1-800-SENTARA or visit sentara.com.
Recent Stories
BRISTOW, Va. — A pickup truck driver was hospitalized Tuesday morning after a collision with an Amtrak train near the Bristow Road railroad crossing, just south of Manassas.
WOODBRIDGE, Va. — Woodbridge has been named the fastest-growing suburb in the United States, according to a new report from Travel + Leisure, shining a national spotlight on eastern Prince William County and prompting praise from local business and government leaders.
The Historic Manassas Farmers Market is back for the 2025 season — and it’s bringing fresh produce, handmade goods, and community vibes to Downtown Manassas all spring, summer, and fall.
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. — When Diane Wheeler and her family adopted Honey from Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) five years ago, they quickly realized she had a calm, friendly personality well-suited for more than just home life.
Inspired by local physicians who were among the nation’s first to adopt the concierge medicine model, Northern Virginia is now a hub for its surging popularity. These leading physicians are redefining the patient experience with same-day appointments, direct availability, unhurried visits, and deeply personalized care:
After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”
Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”
Get More from your Fitness with IM=X® Pilates & Fitness King Farm!
Help us Celebrate our 5 Year Anniversary by joining our OPEN HOUSE
When: April 27th 11:45AM
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
