Pints for Prostates

Matthew Sirott, MD

Medical Oncologist

“Pints for Prostates” is a grassroots campaign that uses the universal language of beer to reach men with an important health message about their prostate health. Founded by a prostate cancer survivor who was diagnosed at the age of 48, this non-profit campaign raises awareness among men about the need for regular health screenings and PSA testing.  In partnership with Pyramid Brewery and Pacific Urology, Diablo Valley Oncology brings the first ever “PINTS FOR PROSTATES” fundraiser event to Walnut Creek on September 7, 2011. 

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American males today (220,000 cases in 2010) and is the second leading cause of cancer death (32,000 in 2010) in the United States.  1 in 6 men is at a lifetime risk of developing prostate cancer.  Age is the strongest risk factor for prostate cancer. The disease is rare in men younger than 45, but the chance of getting it goes up sharply as a man ages. Also, a man’s risk of prostate cancer doubles if his brother or father had the disease.  Prostate cancer is more common in African American men and less common in Asian and Native American men.

Early-stage prostate cancer may not be associated with any obvious signs or symptoms, or may cause symptoms that can be mistaken for those of other disorders.

The signs and symptoms of more advanced prostate cancer may include frequent need for urination, difficult or painful urination, blood in the urine, pelvic pain, painful ejaculation, loss of appetite/weight and bone pain.

If detected early, prostate cancer is treatable and curable.  Today, there are more than 2 million prostate cancer survivors in the US.  Treatment for prostate cancer can include active surveillance, surgery, image-guided radiation therapy using Calypso GPS technology, hormonal therapy, immune therapy and chemotherapy. 

The American Cancer Society’s guidelines recommend that men should get routine PSA screening at age 50.  However, if you are under 50 and experience any of the above symptoms or have a close relative who has had prostate cancer, it is reasonable to discuss earlier prostate cancer screening with your primary care physician.

Join us at “Pints for Prostates”, guaranteed to be a fun and informative evening.  September 7, 2011, 6-8pm at Pyramid Alehouse, 1410 Locust Street, Walnut Creek. For a $20 donation, you will receive the “Pints Package” which will include a custom beer glass, beer, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and raffle tickets.  Space is limited so RSVP at 925-677-5041 extn 260.