Share ThisIn our Ask a Doc series, we sit down with physicians and other clinical experts, including those at Allegheny Health Network (AHN), for a chat on an important health topic. In this post, we cover men’s health with Dr. Goutham Vemana, chair of AHN Urology.
One in eight men will experience prostate cancer during their lifetime. Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects about 24% of men in the U.S. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, affects approximately 40 million men.
Despite how common these conditions are, many men delay care until symptoms become hard to ignore.
In observance of Men’s Health Month in June, I connected with Dr. Goutham Vemana, chair of AHN Urology, about why these issues often go undiagnosed, what symptoms men should watch for, and how urologic health connects to a man’s overall well-being.
Emily Mashore: Men often delay care, especially for urologic issues. Why do these conditions go undiagnosed or untreated?
Dr. Goutham Vemana: Many men are hesitant to talk about changes in their health, especially when it comes to urinary symptoms, sexual health or incontinence. Some men dismiss symptoms as a normal part of aging, while others feel uncomfortable bringing them up.
The reality is that many of these conditions are common and highly treatable. Delaying care can allow symptoms to worsen and may limit treatment options. The earlier we evaluate what’s going on, the better we can help improve a patient’s quality of life.
Emily Mashore: How does stigma around vulnerability impact men’s willingness to seek care?
Dr. Goutham Vemana: Stigma still plays a significant role. There’s often a perception that these issues are something men just have to live with, or that talking about their problems is a sign of weakness. That mindset can prevent men from seeking care when they should.
We want patients to know that just like high blood pressure or diabetes, these are medical conditions that deserve the same level of attention and care. In many cases, urologic symptoms are also linked to other health issues — so addressing them can uncover and help manage broader health risks.
Emily Mashore: What symptoms should men be paying attention to?
Dr. Goutham Vemana: Any changes in urinary habits — including increased frequency, urgency, or difficulty starting a stream — should be evaluated. Blood in the urine, pelvic discomfort or changes in sexual function are also important to address. Even if symptoms seem mild, it’s better to have a conversation early.
Emily Mashore: What conditions do you see most often, and how are they treated today?
Dr. Goutham Vemana: Some of the most common conditions we treat include prostate cancer, enlarged prostate (BPH) and urinary incontinence.
Treatment has advanced significantly in recent years, with a strong shift toward minimally invasive, highly targeted approaches that reduce recovery time and improve outcomes for patients.
For certain patients with low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer, AHN was the first health system in western Pennsylvania to offer high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), a minimally invasive treatment with same-day discharge and a short recovery time. For those with intermediate and high-risk, localized prostate cancer, we often perform robotic prostatectomies, or robotic-assisted prostate surgery to remove all or part of the prostate gland, even on an outpatient basis for some patients.
For men with BPH, a noncancerous condition, Aquablation therapy uses an AI-powered robotic system and a heat-free waterjet to precisely remove excess prostate tissue. It’s designed to improve symptoms like weak stream, frequency and urgency of urination while being able to preserve sexual function.
For urinary incontinence, which can be a particularly vulnerable and underreported issue, treatment options continue to expand as well. One of our reconstructive urologists, Dr. Kiran Sury, offers ProACT, a minimally invasive option for some men, particularly non-radiated patients after prostate treatment. The procedure places two small, adjustable balloons near the urethra to provide support and improve bladder control. One of the benefits of ProACT is that it can be adjusted over time based on a patient’s needs, offering a personalized approach for men with mild to severe symptoms.
Across all these areas, our focus at AHN is to offer the latest, evidence-based treatments in a way that’s personalized to each patient. We want men to know they have options — many of which are less invasive and more effective than they might expect.
Emily Mashore: Many men turn to supplements for prostate health or performance. What should they know before taking them?
Dr. Goutham Vemana: Supplements are widely marketed, but they’re not always regulated or supported by strong clinical evidence. Some may offer limited benefits, and others can interact with medications or mask underlying issues.
Before starting any supplement, it’s important to talk with a physician. We can help patients understand what’s safe, what’s effective and whether there may be a better, evidence-based option.
Emily Mashore: How can taking care of urologic health improve a man’s overall health and quality of life?
Dr. Goutham Vemana: Urologic health is closely connected to many other aspects of a person’s health. When we address symptoms like ED, urinary changes or prostate concerns, we’re often also evaluating things like cardiovascular health, metabolic conditions and overall wellness.
Beyond that, these issues can have a real impact on daily life — sleep, confidence, relationships and mental health. When we’re able to treat or manage them effectively, patients often see improvements across multiple areas. That’s why it’s important to view urologic health as part of whole-person care.
Emily Mashore: What’s the one message men should take away for Men’s Health Month…and all year round?
Dr. Goutham Vemana: Don’t wait to speak up about changes in your health. These conditions are common, treatable and easier to manage when caught early. Taking that first step can make a meaningful difference in your overall health.
Certified by the American Board of Urology and fellowship-trained in urologic oncology, Goutham Vemana, MD, specializes in the treatment of all urological conditions with a focused interest in urologic malignancy. His patient care strategy utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to treat complex urologic conditions, including Aquablation for BPH (Enlarged Prostate). He has years of experience with advanced minimally invasive techniques, including robot-assisted surgery.
After earning his BS in electrical engineering and his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati, Dr. Vemana completed his urology residency at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center in Ohio. He gained additional training in the treatment of complex urological conditions during his fellowship in urologic oncology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri.
Dr. Vemana has published extensively on the topics of prostate, kidney, and bladder cancer. He has medical privileges at Allegheny General Hospital.
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