Getting older isn’t for the faint of heart, but it certainly beats the alternative! There is no “one size fits all” secret to growing old gracefully, but once you reach middle age, it’s a good idea to take an honest look at your current diet and lifestyle choices and decide if a few changes are necessary. Many men already have an established relationship with a Primary Care Physician (PCP), and if you don’t already have a trusted doctor, it’s now easier than ever to make an informed decision!
The Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation has a threefold mission to educate Arkansans, to encourage the timely detection of prostate cancer, and to engage men and their families with personal guidance from the day of diagnosis through survivorship. We also offer plenty of free online educational resources on our website and make it easy to find a free community screening in your area. Annual prostate exams are an essential part of men’s health, and it’s equally important to schedule an annual physical with a physician to monitor other common health issues that affect us as we grow older.
If you don’t already have a trusted PCP, you undoubtedly have plenty of friends and acquaintances who will be happy to tell you about their experiences with doctors in your community. We also host virtual support groups that make it easy to connect with other men who are going through similar experiences, and they’re always willing to share their stories. You can easily verify a physician’s credentials online with the Arkansas State Medical Board and directories such as the American Medical Association’s DoctorFinder, and you can also read reviews on websites such as Healthgrades or The Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN). Just remember that online reviews aren’t always reliable and can often be highly biased!
If you currently have any pre-existing conditions, such as urinary flow, incontinence, or erectile dysfunction, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a doctor in your community with a proven track record of success treating those issues. And don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call any doctors you’re considering. Even if they don’t seem to be the right fit for your current needs, they’ll often gladly help you locate someone who is!
To learn more about prostate health or cancer screenings in Little Rock, contact us online or at 501-379-8027
