September is Prostate Cancer Awareness month and is dedicated to educating men about the most common cancer diagnosed in American men other than skin cancer.  For the year 2016, it is estimated about 180,890 men will get a diagnosis of prostate cancer and 26,120 men will die from it.  About 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime with the average age of diagnosis at 66 years of age.

“Any man getting a diagnosis of prostate cancer will need to be as informed as he can about the disease,” stressed Dr. David Samadi, chairman of Urology and Chief of Robotic Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.  “Use that information to ask the right questions on getting the best treatment and outcome possible.”

Dr. Samadi has dedicated his career to the early detection, diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer and is considered one of the most prominent surgeons in his field.   Dr. Samadi has performed over 7,000 successful robotic prostate surgeries. He developed his own advanced SMART prostate cancer surgery technique which drastically reduces blood loss, pain, hospital stay, recovery time and side effects. 

“Having options is a good when it comes to treating prostate cancer,” said Dr. Samadi. “Robotic prostate surgery can save essential nerves responsible for sexual function and urinary continence allowing men to get back to their normal lives as soon as possible.”

Dr. Samadi is committed on educating men for their best quality of life.  “I’m a big believer in men practicing good health habits,” said Dr. Samadi.  “This can greatly reduce a variety of medical condition including reducing a man’s risk for prostate cancer.”

Dr. Samadi recommends the following health habits all men should embrace:

·         Eat a prostate friendly diet - Include prostate cancer fighting foods such as tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and Brussel sprouts, soy, coffee, salmon, and pomegranates.  Reduce consumption of processed meat – hot dogs, sausage, deli meats, and bacon.

·         Increase physical activity – Increasing exercise is associated with reducing prostate cancer risk and progression.  Men should aim for at least 150 minutes each week of moderate to vigorous exercise.

·         Maintain a healthy body weight – All men should aim to reduce belly fat and achieve a healthy weight range for their height by choosing healthy foods and regular exercise

·         Do not smoke – Smoking may possibly increase risk of prostate cancer along with other health related conditions.

·         Regular prostate cancer screening tests – Speak with your physician on the benefits of screening in order to track and detect any symptoms of prostate cancer.  Prostate cancer screenings include a digital rectal exam and a blood test called prostate specific antigen (PSA) which can reveal any abnormalities of the prostate.

“By spreading awareness of this disease of men, we can work together to inform men and women about the importance of prostate cancer screening and prevention this month,” said Dr. Samadi.  “Getting a conversation started about men’s health and prevention of prostate cancer is a big step towards creating a healthier environment and lifestyle for men. And that’s what I care about the most.”