In December 2019, I was diagnosed with the lowest grade of prostate cancer, which may not progress to a more aggressive disease.* My intent of this post is solely to heighten men’s awareness that prostate cancer can occur as one ages, even if you maintain a healthy lifestyle, stay active, and eat close to the Earth. At first, I was hesitant whether I should post such a personal story through this painting as I don’t want anyone to tell me “I’m sorry.” I am positive and upbeat, and living life to the fullest. Knowledge is power.
*Garisto, J.D. and L. Klotz. 2017. Active Surveillance for Prostate Cancer: How to Do It Right. Oncology 31(5):333-340. There has been a nearly 70% increase in new prostate cancer cases, mostly classified as low risk, that have been diagnosed in early stages as a consequence of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening. Data regarding the natural history of this disease confirm the clinical insignificance of low-grade prostate cancer, which is associated with scant or no metastatic dissemination. Active surveillance is a conservative management approach, conducted for those patients with "low-risk" or "favorable-risk" disease, which avoids long-term adverse effects on the patient's quality of life.
For more information on prostate cancer and the different grades of the disease, see these two 2019 and 2020 articles:
