Prostate Cancer Specialist

Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center

Urologists located in Hemet, CA

About one in eight men will develop prostate cancer at some point during their lifetime. Fortunately, when detected early, it’s possible to both manage and effectively treat. At Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center, urologists Girdhari Purohit, MD, FACS, James Hendricks, MD, FACS, and the team specialize in the treatment of prostate cancer. Using advanced methods of care, including cryo-surgical ablation, the team can help you recover. To make an appointment at the practice in Hemet, California, call the office or click the online booking tool today.

Prostate Cancer Q & A

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is a common disease that causes the cells of the prostate — a small, walnut-shaped gland in males that produces seminal fluid — to divide and multiply uncontrollably. The majority of prostate cancers develop slowly and remain in the pelvic region. Others are more aggressive and spread to other parts of the body.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Common symptoms of prostate cancer include:

  • Difficulty urinating
  • Decreased force in the urine stream
  • Blood in the urine
  • Blood in the semen
  • Bone pain
  • Erectile dysfunction

As prostate cancer progresses, you might also experience significant, unexplained weight loss. 

Who is at risk of prostate cancer?

Men of all ages experience prostate cancer, but several factors increase your risk, including being 50 or older, having a family history of the disease, and being obese. Your race might also play a role. Experts aren’t sure why, but Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer than their Caucasian, Hispanic, or Asian counterparts.

Is there any way to prevent prostate cancer?

You can significantly lower your risk of prostate cancer by living a healthy and active lifestyle. The team at Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center recommends eating a balanced, nutritious diet, regularly exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight.

If you have a family history of prostate cancer, your provider can recommend medications or treatments to help reduce the risk.

How is prostate cancer diagnosed?

The team at Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center diagnoses prostate cancer with one of the following tests:

Digital rectal exam (DRE)

During a DRE, your provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum. They assess the shape, size, and location of your prostate. If anything seems abnormal, they order additional testing.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

A PSA test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen in your bloodstream. Every man has some PSA, but if your numbers are outside the normal range, it may indicate infection, inflammation, or cancer.

If these measures don’t provide enough information, the team might recommend diagnostic imaging procedures like an ultrasound or an MRI. You might also benefit from a tissue biopsy. 

How is prostate cancer treated?

The team at Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center offers several types of treatment for prostate cancer, including:

  • Greenlight laser surgery (photo-selective vaporization of the prostate)
  • Cryo-ablation therapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radical prostatectomy

The team also offers targeted drug therapy. The treatment uses special drugs to target specific abnormalities present in cancer cells.

If you’re concerned about your risk of prostate cancer, make an appointment at Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.