September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on the most common cancer, second to non-melanoma skin cancer, and the critical role early detection plays in saving men’s lives.
For Taylor Brewer, MSM, PA-C, of Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Patrick Dougherty, MPAS, PA-C, of UT Southwestern Medical Center, the month also highlights the many ways PAs guide patients from screening to survivorship.
First Screening to Long-Term Recovery
Brewer has spent her eight-year PA career practicing in urology, leading a team of 11 PAs and NPs in Vanderbilt’s Department of Urology. She sees patients across the spectrum — pre- and post-operative, new and returning — and often serves as the first point of contact for those referred for elevated PSA levels.
“There are many misconceptions about prostate cancer,” Brewer said. “Prostate cancer, especially in its early stages, often causes no symptoms. That’s why we have a screening test — the PSA. On the other hand, urinary symptoms don’t always mean cancer, and PSA testing isn’t perfect. It’s a screening tool, not a definitive diagnosis.”
Brewer guides patients through current recommendations and guidelines to help them understand the next steps after PSA testing.
At UT Southwestern in Dallas, Dougherty splits his time between the outpatient clinic and operating room, where he serves as a first-assist in robotic urology cases.
With nearly 15 years in the urology specialty, Dougherty focuses on prostate disease and men’s health. He is also the current President of the UAPA.
“I enjoy being able to follow a patient from their first screening PSA through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, then watch them thrive in survivorship,” Dougherty said. “We have seen incredible advances in robotic surgery and surgical strategies over the past 15 years, and being part of that evolution is exciting.”
A Patient-Centered Approach
For Dougherty, comprehensive care starts before diagnosis.
“Not all prostate cancer needs to be treated,” he said. “Only about 1% of men diagnosed would die from prostate cancer within 10 years of diagnosis, regardless of treatment. A broader look at a patient’s overall health and life expectancy helps us reduce over-treatment and preserve quality of life.”
When treatment is necessary, Dougherty prioritizes patient ownership of the decision, balanced discussions of risks and benefits and early interventions, such as pelvic floor therapy and erectile blood flow restoration, to improve long-term recovery. He maintains an open communication policy, encouraging patients to reach out between visits to address concerns quickly.
Expanding Access and Impact
Brewer and Dougherty highlight that PAs are vital for improving access, especially in underserved areas and amid a looming urologist shortage.
About 1.1% (or 1,419) of the PA workforce practice in urology, according to the 2024 Statistical Profile of Board Certified PAs by Specialty Annual Report.
“PAs can be the entry point for screening and referrals,” Brewer said. “Early detection saves lives, and we’re in a position to make sure that happens.”
During Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, both PAs encourage men to be proactive with screenings and informed choices.
“That conversation with your provider,” Brewer said, “could make all the difference.”