Title: Minneapolis Man Utilizes Revolutionary Prostate Cancer Treatment, Encourages Men to Prioritize Screenings
Subtitle: High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Provides a Less Invasive Option for Prostate Cancer Treatment
Date: [Date]
MINNEAPOLIS — November is men’s cancer awareness month, and there’s some news many men are not aware of — screening for prostate cancer is now as simple as getting a blood test. And for those who do end up having cancer, treating the condition can be easier than ever in the Twin Cities.
Jay Doetkott of Minneapolis knows how to live life. Abroad or at home, he is on the move. “I like to ride bikes, swim, I go to the gym, I bike mostly in the summer and I play a lot of golf. I have played sports my whole life,” he said. That healthy lifestyle includes yearly physicals that until recently came with good reports.
It was during one of these routine physicals that Doetkott received some unexpected news. “It was not a fun word to hear, but it was explained to me it was very low grade and early in the process,” Doetkott recalled. “When they said the numbers had moved again then I was concerned. I thought if this gets out of control, can it spread to other organs and would I really be in trouble.”
Typically, prostate cancer cases like his would mean a serious surgery involving the removal of the whole prostate or radiation. These procedures often lead to the loss of sexual function and urination control. However, Doetkott’s doctor had a brand new idea called High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). It’s a probe that heats and treats only the part of the prostate with cancer and the surrounding area. Doetkott’s procedure took place at Methodist Hospital, which houses the only HIFU machine in the cities.
“For me, it’s revolutionary,” said Dr. Jocelyn Rieder. “We give these patients this second less invasive option. It’s not something that is going to change their quality of life, change their routine, it’s an outpatient procedure and they go home the same day and their regular life really quickly.”
Doetkott’s recovery has been impressive. He is back on his bike, enjoying life and continuing his adventures. HIFU is available at Methodist for cases where cancer has not spread. Dr. Rieder emphasizes that Doetkott’s story serves as a cue for men to prioritize their yearly physicals, as early-stage cancer is much easier to treat.
In recognition of men’s cancer awareness month, this breakthrough in prostate cancer treatment provides hope for individuals like Jay Doetkott and countless others. It serves as a reminder that regular screenings can make a significant difference in catching cancer at an early stage, offering patients a wider range of treatment options and preserving their quality of life.
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About the Author:
Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield loves sharing the good news. She hosts a show on Sunday mornings based on local “positivity and empowerment,” leading right into CBS Sunday Morning.
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