New technology is helping improve early detection of prostate cancer – the most common cancer among South African men, with one in 19 at risk at developing it in their lifetime.
According to the Cancer Association of SA (CANSA), prostate cancer is on the rise with main risk factors being age, ethnicity, genetics, obesity and poor diet. The prostate is a small gland within the reproductive system — located just below the bladder — which secretes fluid to nourish sperm.
Prostate cancer may be effectively treated — particularly if detected early through regular consented screening by men over 45 — according to The Urology Hospital, Pretoria.
And, research shows that new technology in the form of a fusion guided biopsy, which combines magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with ultrasound, is improving detection, allowing earlier intervention. The technology fuses detailed MRI scans with live, real-time ultrasound images, providing a better indication of the location of potential tumours.
Urologist, Dr Laurie Blake, says “educated risk-adapted screening” (consented screening) is vital, particularly if there is a family history of prostate cancer or if men experience difficulty urinating, a constant full bladder or an urgency to pass urine frequently. He said The Urology Hospital offered all major screening procedures, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, rectal examinations and blood tests.
“Should a screen raise suspicions, it could be followed by a fusion guided biopsy to detect the location and stage of the cancer. Once the cancer is confirmed there are a various treatment options,” added Blake.
The most common is a prostatectomy (removal of part or all of the prostate) through minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery or robotic surgery – both state-of-the-art procedures.
The Urology Hospital is the only specialised institution of its kind in Africa, offering the latest technology combined with the expertise of 23 urologists under one roof. It was the first hospital in SA to acquire a robotic surgical system and has one of only a few 3D laparoscopic surgical units in the country.
Blake urged men over 45 who were concerned about their prostate health to contact The Urology Hospital, to find out more.
For more information, contact 012 423-4000 or SMS the word INFO and your email address to 33000 (SMS charged at R1.50).
- For media info and interviews, contact Farah Manuel or Craig Doonan on 021 785 3683 or on 076 051 4233 or farah@leapcommunications.co.za.
- For all other info, contact Narisscia Erasmus on 012 423 4069, email Narisscia.erasmus@urology.co.za, email urology@urology.co.za. Visit www.urology.co.za and follow The Urology Hospital, Pretoria on Facebook.
About The Urology Hospital, Pretoria
The Urology Hospital, Pretoria, is the only urology centre of excellence in Africa. With more than 20 urologists under one roof, using the latest in highly specialised technology as well as specialised urology trained nursing staff, it offers unparalleled expertise in its field. In addition, the hospital maintains its association with the academic world to ensure ongoing research, medical education and training and development in the field of urology.
The hospital prides itself on being at the forefront of technology. It was the first hospital in South Africa to perform robotic surgery, implement a robotic pharmacy picking system and now has one of only a handful of 3D laparoscopic surgical units in South Africa. The hospital has undergone major renovations and now offers 127 beds and seven theatres.
The Urology Hospital not only cares about patients and staff, but also for the community, undertaking numerous Corporate Social Investment initiatives throughout the year. The hospital and staff work together to assist selected charities, including donations to The Clothing Bank, uniforms for Sunnyside Primary School and stationery for Balebogeng Primary School.
