In this episode of the On Call for Men's Health podcast, Dr. Michael Lutz is joined by Frank Lescas, Vice President of Marketing at Blue Earth Diagnostics, to discuss prostate cancer survivorship, the evolution of prostate cancer diagnostics, and the role of radiopharmaceuticals in improving men's health. Blue Earth Diagnostics, founded in 2014, has become a leader in developing innovative diagnostic tools, especially for prostate cancer, with products like Axumin and Posluma, which allow physicians to better visualize cancer at a cellular level using PET scans. This can all follow the initial screening, which is done with a simple blood test.
Frank shares how Blue Earth's radiopharmaceuticals have revolutionized prostate cancer diagnostics by offering more precise imaging than traditional CT or MRI scans. This improved precision enables doctors like Dr. Lutz to better assess the stage of the disease, facilitating more informed decisions about treatment options, and advancing the shared decision-making process between patients and healthcare providers.
Throughout the episode, Frank reflects on his personal connection to prostate cancer. His grandfather and uncle both battled the disease in different eras, with his uncle benefitting from advances in PSA testing and therapeutic options. His brother, diagnosed more recently, exemplifies the benefits of modern prostate cancer management, including active surveillance and PSMA PET scanning. Frank stresses the importance of regular screening and advocacy, encouraging men to get PSA tests as part of their routine healthcare.
The conversation also highlights how prostate cancer diagnostics have evolved from crude blood tests in the 1970s to today's highly sensitive imaging and genetic tests. Dr. Lutz emphasizes the growing role of liquid biopsies and multiparametric MRIs, which, along with advanced PET scans, allow for more accurate staging and treatment planning. The episode calls for men to be proactive about their health, get screened regularly, and take advantage of advancements in prostate cancer detection and treatment.
You'll also hear about Frank's experience as an Olympic swimmer as well!
More:
Michigan Men's Health Foundation: https://www.miumenshealthfoundation.org/
Blue Earth Diagnostics: https://www.blueearthdiagnostics.com/
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