CALIFORNIA, USA — Prostate cancer is the most common solid organ cancer for men in America. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 288,000 men will face a diagnosis this year.
Sacramento resident John Albrecht is a 14-year survivor. He learned his cancer was aggressive at just 51 years old. That's four years under the screening age.
"My doctors at the time were basically telling me 'you're too young, it's not going to happen' so, the shock was pretty bad," Albrecht said.
Since then he's been through hormone therapy, dozens of radiation treatments and multiple surgeries. Despite his treatments, Albrecht said he's feeling good lately. He said he hasn't felt this good since 2016.
"I think that's the most important thing I could say today is be proactive in your health, be proactive with your doctors, be an advocate for yourself," he said.
Sutter Medical Center Sacramento Urologist Dr. Kadee Thompson agrees. She said there aren't many symptoms of prostate cancer, and that's why it's important to stay up to date on your screenings.
"Men are not always enthusiastic about visiting physicians, and we really hope to change that a little bit to destigmatize conditions that affect men," Thompson said. "Not all patients who are diagnosed with prostate cancer require treatment. Now we find many patients with a low risk of prostate cancer and we can pursue active surveillance to keep an eye on if it changes or progresses."
Albrecht said for someone newly facing a diagnosis he recommends getting educated and getting in a support group. He's joined a few throughout his journey and even serves as a mentor.
"My journey has been long, it's been tough, I've tried to stay positive most of the time, in doing that I'm helping others," he said. "I think that's why I'm still here today after 14 years being a stage four cancer patient, there were guides through the years that have helped me through my hard times, so it's my turn to help others."
If you would like to show your support for prostate cancer awareness you can take part in the Sacramento Zero Prostate Cancer walk/run on Saturday, November 11. You can register or donate through the organization's website.
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