Mayo Clinic Book on Prostate Health Encourages Early Detection

Friday, April 28, 2000

ROCHESTER, MINN. — Prostate conditions — even cancer — are often easily treated. The key to a good outcome is early diagnosis, according to "Mayo Clinic on Prostate Health," a new health guide from Mayo Clinic. When detected early, cancer and other prostate disorders have the best chance of successful treatment with minimal side effects. That's why it's important that you know the early warning signs of prostate disease and, if you're at least age 40 years, that you have a yearly prostate checkup.

Prostate conditions are some of the most important health issues men face. Concerns run the gamut from incontinence to impotence to cancer.

"Mayo Clinic on Prostate Health" was written and edited by Mayo Clinic urologists and cancer specialists to help men understand and make decisions about their prostate health. The book offers the latest information and recommendations for prostate testing, disease treatments and self-care. Topics covered include warning signs of prostate disease, diet and exercise recommendations and the importance of regular screenings.

Studies show that if your father or brother has prostate cancer, your risk is about twice as great as the average American male. And depending on the number of relatives with prostate cancer and the age at which they had it, your risk could be even higher. In families with a history of prostate cancer, the cancer generally strikes at an earlier age.

"Mayo Clinic on Prostate Cancer" offers practical information on what to expect during a prostate checkup, questions to ask your doctor and how to select the right treatment for your prostate condition. Q&A sections at the end of each chapter provide answers to the most commonly asked questions about prostate health. Explanations of the latest experimental therapies, alternative health choices and a rundown of risk factors also are included.

The new book is the latest health guide written by Mayo Clinic health experts. "Mayo Clinic on Prostate Health" joins other titles such as "Mayo Clinic on Arthritis," "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book" and "Mayo Clinic Guide to Self-Care." "Mayo Clinic on Prostate Health" is available for $14.95 at bookstores everywhere.

Autumn Latimore 507-284-9776 (days) 507-284-2511 (evenings) e-mail: newsbureau@mayo.edu

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