Men's Health: Stay in the Game

Matthew Strasser, DO, internal medicine physician with Meritas Health North Kansas City, presented the "Men's Health: Stay in the Game" Lunch and Learn.

Men may not be aware that as they age, kidney function declines, prostate problems become common and testosterone levels decrease. Dr. Strasser discussed the risk factors, preventive measures, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for keeping a man’s kidney, prostate and testosterone levels in check.

Top 5 Takeaways:

1. Many know the kidneys filter extra water and wastes out of the blood to make urine, but they also help control blood pressure, make red blood cells and keep bones strong.
2. Although a family history of kidney failure is not controllable, managing your diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure will help decrease your risk for developing chronic kidney disease. Additionally,
   • Make healthy food choices
   • Participate in physical activity to maintain a healthy weight
   • Get enough sleep
   • Explore stress-reducing activities
   • Stop smoking
   • Limit alcohol intake
3. As men age, the prostate grows, puts pressure on the urethra and obstructs urine flow. An enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, is not cancerous, but each year about 350,000 men with BPH need treatment. When conservative methods no longer provide relief, your PCP will refer to a urologist.
4. Screening for prostate cancer should begin at age 50 with a prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, blood test. A high PSA level could mean you have prostate cancer. However, it could also mean you have an enlarged or infected prostate. A digital rectal exam may also be part of your complete physical exam.
5. When you don't produce testosterone, you can experience:
   • Fatigue
   • Decreased sex drive
   • Depression
   • Reduced muscle mass
   • Breast tissue development

   In addition to determining your testosterone levels through labs, your PCP will consider how adding testosterone may affect your risk for prostate cancer or enlargement, blood clots and cardiac issues. Any hormone treatment will include routine monitoring.

If you think you have issues with your prostate, kidneys, testosterone levels or other health concerns, call your primary care doctor.

Watch Dr. Strasser’s presentation.

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Amy Bennett

Amy Bennett is the physician communications coordinator for North Kansas City Hospital. She is editor of Physician Connections, and she writes brochure, web and other communication pieces for North Kansas City Hospital and Meritas Health. In her spare time, she is often working in her flower garden or volunteering with the Girl Scouts or Pet Partners, a pet therapy organization.