Last night we had our Us Too Peoria support group meeting. We had changed the date because of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Dr. Tom Rashid was our speaker and it was the 5th time he has addressed our group. He is always very informative and takes every minute to answer whatever questions the audience has for him. He has been one of our biggest supporters and that is very much appreciated.
He is connected with OSF in Peoria and he spoke of the importance of early screening. He told of a family member who had died this year of prostate cancer and I believe we all felt his pain. He is a urologist and this member could have benefited from his expertise. His testimony spoke volumes to all of us to always encourage those close to us to be sure they are properly screened.
Well, the weekend is upon us and it's cold, so I hope everyone stays safe this weekend and that you enjoy your time with family and friends.
Blessings,
Rick
Friday, December 5, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
CyberKnife for Prostate Cancer
Experts Weigh in on CyberKnife for Prostate Cancer
While hospitals around the country aggressively market Cyberknife for treatment of early prostate cancer, this trend has sparked debate over whether this treatment option represents an important advancement or the latest example of an expensive and potentially profitable new technology. While its advocates say the CyberKnife offers prostate cancer patients a safe and effective alternative to traditional radiation treatment, many experts fear that it could leave men unnecessarily vulnerable to recurrences or potentially serious complications. Cyberknife supporters argue that there is sufficient evidence that this approach is at least as good as standard therapies, and since it can precisely target tumors with higher doses of radiation, it could prove to be safer and even more effective.
"This is really pushing the envelope," said Anthony L. Zietman, president-elect of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology. "It might be as good and more convenient. It may be better and more convenient. But it could turn out to be a disaster. No one knows."
Have a good Wednesday.
Blessings,
Rick
While hospitals around the country aggressively market Cyberknife for treatment of early prostate cancer, this trend has sparked debate over whether this treatment option represents an important advancement or the latest example of an expensive and potentially profitable new technology. While its advocates say the CyberKnife offers prostate cancer patients a safe and effective alternative to traditional radiation treatment, many experts fear that it could leave men unnecessarily vulnerable to recurrences or potentially serious complications. Cyberknife supporters argue that there is sufficient evidence that this approach is at least as good as standard therapies, and since it can precisely target tumors with higher doses of radiation, it could prove to be safer and even more effective.
"This is really pushing the envelope," said Anthony L. Zietman, president-elect of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology. "It might be as good and more convenient. It may be better and more convenient. But it could turn out to be a disaster. No one knows."
Have a good Wednesday.
Blessings,
Rick
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Snowed Out
Well, I attempted to travel to Bloomington, Indiana yesterday for my three year follow up appointment, but after driving 45 minutes and just covering 15 miles, I decided that another day would be better. In one ten miles stretch of road I saw 15 cars in the ditches. This was all the encouragement I needed to turn around and head for home.
I just called and my new appointment is for December 29th, so we'll see if the weather cooperates that day.
I feel great and had my annual physical two weeks ago. Everything looked good except for a possible problem with my heart. I am currently wearing a monitor for 30 days. I guess we'll know something after that time. My father died of a heart condition, so I want to take every precaution. I have five granddaughters and another baby on the way. Those are reasons enough to take care of things.
Well, I hope you all have a good Tuesday.
Blessings,
Rick
I just called and my new appointment is for December 29th, so we'll see if the weather cooperates that day.
I feel great and had my annual physical two weeks ago. Everything looked good except for a possible problem with my heart. I am currently wearing a monitor for 30 days. I guess we'll know something after that time. My father died of a heart condition, so I want to take every precaution. I have five granddaughters and another baby on the way. Those are reasons enough to take care of things.
Well, I hope you all have a good Tuesday.
Blessings,
Rick
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)