Early detection of prostate cancer is key to survival

September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and considering it is the most common cancer affecting Australian men (after non-melanoma skin cancer), this is a timely reminder to consider your prostate health or that of a loved one.

It is estimated more than 25,000 Australian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year (nearly 70 each day), sadly resulting in about 10 deaths a day.

While the real cause of prostate cancer is not understood, we know that it begins when abnormal cells within the prostate grow in an uncontrolled way.

The risk is higher if you have a family history or relative who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Symptoms include blood in urine or semen and the sudden need to urinate.

It is important to speak to your doctor to discuss testing options for you, which will likely include a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test as a screening measure.

Generally if PSA is elevated, patients are referred to a urologist who often order medical imaging (prostate MRI) for investigation, followed by a biopsy procedure if required.

MRI accurately evaluates any spread of disease outside the prostate gland, which is important when it comes to treatment options.

Understanding the extent of disease enables the surgeon to determine whether it is possible to preserve the delicate arteries and nerves which are essential for maintaining sexual function and bladder control.

Lake Imaging invest in cutting edge MRI and PET-CT technology to provide accurate high-resolution images.

Prostate MRI and PSMA PET scans are available from their St John of God Hospital clinic in Geelong, where their highly experienced radiologists are experts in detecting and diagnosing disease.

Their caring and compassionate staff ensure all patients are treated with dignity and respect.

Lake Imaging accept referral forms from other medical imaging providers.

Don’t delay your investigations into the health of your prostate: early diagnosis could save your life.

Talk to your GP today or contact Lake Imaging to make an appointment.

For more information, contact the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia or head to lakeimaging.com.au to better understand how radiology saves lives.