CoxHealth launches Prostate Cancer Organization of the Ozarks

Prostate cancer is a growing problem: A report just released from Northwestern University stated that the number of new cases of metastatic prostate cancer climbed 72 percent in the last ten years.

CoxHealth, however, is ahead of the curve: Its efforts to spread awareness about this disease have been ongoing, and now extend through the newly formed Prostate Cancer Organization of the Ozarks (PCOO).

“This organization was formed because it is imperative that men know how to protect their health, regardless of stigma and fear,” says Dr. Abe Abdalla, medical director of Oncology at CoxHealth. “Some men simply don’t want to be tested because of a misinformation that prostate cancer is unimportant, or perhaps because of fear of the unknown. However, it’s important that they realize that in many cases, prostate cancer is completely curable with excellent quality of life after treatment, including potency.”

Education about prostate cancer is a big portion of PCOO’s mission, since it’s believed that increasing awareness is key to getting men tested and treated in the early stages, before the disease has spread. 

The organization’s other goals include the establishment of a one-stop clinic providing all prostate cancer related care, and hiring a Prostate Cancer Navigator to answer questions and assist patients and families following diagnosis. Additionally, PCOO intends to assist the underserved in getting necessary assistance to take control of their prostate health.

CoxHealth has exceptional physicians and treatment options, including robotic surgery, image guidance radiation therapy, chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Additionally, a recently completed study demonstrated CoxHealth’s prostate seed implant program as having a 97.8% cure rate for early stage prostate cancer with virtually no complications. 

“If our community will work with us, we can give men the knowledge they need to understand the importance of screening,” says Aballa. “In the event of a diagnosis, we want it to be early enough to hopefully to ensure a cure.”

For more information about the PCOO, please call 269-7150. Additionally, the CoxHealth Foundation has formed the Prostate Cancer Fund to support the work of the PCOO. Donations to support prostate cancer care are gratefully received by calling 417-269-7150 or online at www.coxhealthfoundation.com.