Claxton-Hepburn

7 We take your health personally. L I V I N G W E L L screenings for Men's Health The best way to treat many conditions is to detect them early. Review the screenings you need based on your age. Fighting Cancer with 'Family' In August 2012, a prostate biopsy performed by Layo's urologist revealed that Layo, then 65, had cancer. The urologist suggested two treatment destinations: a facility in Burlington, Vermont, or Claxton-Hepburn. A meeting with John Gebert, MD, radiation oncologist at the Richard E. Winter Cancer Center at Claxton-Hepburn, in September 2012 convinced Layo that Claxton- Hepburn was the place for him. WELL WORTH THE DRIVE For eight-and-a-half weeks beginning in late October 2012, Layo made the 76-mile round trip from his home in Massena to Claxton- Hepburn ve days a week for radiation treatment. "The treatment team was very efcient—I was usually in and out of the Cancer Center within 30 minutes," Layo says. "Everyone was friendly, caring, and easy to talk and joke with. Those people became my family during that time." Now cancer-free, Layo knows that having many people in his corner was crucial to his treatment and recovery. "You need a network of family and friends to help you cope with cancer," he says. "The providers at the Cancer Center were very much part of my support system." A Good Start (Ages 18–50) Starting in adulthood, men should have a yearly well visit with their physician to discuss family history of chronic conditions, mental health status, and specific screenings needed. Based on your health status, you may need tests for high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, or sexually transmitted infections. A physician should check your moles yearly starting at age 40. Monitoring the Middle (Ages 50–64) In addition to continuing yearly well visits with your physician, men need a colonoscopy starting at age 50. This painless procedure is the gold standard for early detection and removal of colon polyps, the leading source of colon cancer. Depending on the results of your colonoscopy, you may not need another one for 10 years. It's also important to be checked for high blood pressure and cholesterol (as well as diabetes) once a year. These symptomless conditions are key warning signs for heart disease. Stay Gold (Age 65 and Older) As men age, they should discuss management of any chronic conditions with their physicians on a regular basis. Yearly well visits can be used to discuss mental health (including your risk for depression), appropriate vaccinations, and if you are at risk for cognitive decline or dementia. To find a primary care provider, visit www.claxtonhepburn.org. When 68-year-old Massena resident Ken Layo had prostate cancer, the medical providers at the Richard E. Winter Cancer Center at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center weren't just his treatment team—they became like family. The Claxton-Hepburn Foundation is raising $1.5 million of the $4.7-million cost of the Cancer Center's Trilogy linear accelerator. To make a gift to support local, leading-edge cancer care, visit www.claxtonhepburn.org/foundation.

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