Intellectual Medicine

Dr. Stephen Petteruti

Dr. Stephen Petteruti brings more than 30 years of medical experience to candid conversations about prostate cancer, men's health, hormones, longevity, and the decisions that affect how men live and age. Get the research, clinical perspective, and questions worth asking before making health decisions.

  1. 3d ago

    Gleason Score Explained: Why It Shouldn't Determine Your Prostate Cancer Treatment

    What does your Gleason score really tell you about prostate cancer, and how much influence should it have on your treatment decisions?In this episode of Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti explains how the Gleason scoring system works, why scores typically range from 6 to 10, and why a Gleason 3+4=7 carries different implications than a 4+3=7.He discusses the importance of looking beyond a single number, including the number of positive biopsy cores, PSA trends, and prostate MRI findings. He also explores the limitations of using Gleason scores to predict cancer progression and questions how heavily they should influence decisions about surgery, radiation, or active surveillance.Drawing on his interpretation of the ProtecT and PIVOT studies, Dr. Petteruti examines the relationship between cancer risk and treatment outcomes. He also explains the newer Grade Group system and the debate surrounding Gleason 6 prostate cancer.The episode encourages patients to understand their complete clinical picture before making treatment decisions, rather than relying on a Gleason score alone.Timestamps:(00:00) Why Gleason scores matter in prostate cancer(02:12) How Gleason scores are calculated(03:10) Gleason 3+4 vs. 4+3: Why the difference matters(04:48) Why the number of positive biopsy cores is important(06:00) How should Gleason scores influence treatment decisions?(07:37) Surgery, radiation, or observation: What do the studies suggest?(09:27) Predicting cancer progression using PSA trends and MRI(10:03) Why the Gleason scoring system starts at 6(10:23) The debate over classifying Gleason 6 as cancer(11:12) Understanding the Grade Group system(12:39) How Gleason scores correspond to Grade Groups(13:36) Looking beyond Gleason scores when choosing treatmentResources:ProtecT Trial: Fifteen-Year Outcomes after Monitoring, Surgery, or Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer- https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2214122?utm_source=chatgpt.comPIVOT Trial: Prostatectomy versus Observation for Early Prostate Cancer- https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa1615869?utm_source=chatgpt.comEnjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone, and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.📚 ResourcesDr. Petteruti Men's Vitality Grouphttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/membershipFight Cancer Like a Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Fight-Cancer-Like-Man-Breakthrough/dp/B0GP6JHQTQDr. Petteruti's Newsletterhttps://drstephenpetteruti.substack.com/subscribePodcast Show Noteshttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/podcast-notes🌐 Learn MoreDr. Stephen Petterutihttps://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/Intellectual Medicinehttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/📱 Connect with Dr. PetterutiInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti🎧 Listen to the PodcastApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intellectual-medicine/id1458649409Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3om1BQGP8f0hODZ6neWCd1#Overdiagnosis #ProstateHealth #MensVitality #ActiveSurveillanceDisclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.

  2. Oct 20

    His PSA Was 353. Prostate Cancer Was Spreading, So We Put Him On The Protocol

    What happens when prostate cancer has already spread, and how can treatment decisions affect a patient's quality of life?In this episode of Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti shares three patient stories involving metastatic prostate cancer and explores the challenges of balancing cancer treatment with strength, independence, and everyday well-being.Through these cases, he discusses the physical and emotional effects of androgen deprivation therapy, the limitations of relying solely on PSA levels, and his experimental approach to hormone management, which he calls Bipolar Androgen Mitigation (BAM).One patient struggled with treatment-related fatigue, another feared losing his independence, and a third experienced bone pain as his PSA reached 353. Dr. Petteruti explains how he approached each case, including the use of testosterone, hormone-blocking medications, and supportive measures aimed at preserving vitality.He also acknowledges that his experimental protocol has not been shown to extend survival compared with established treatments.Ultimately, the episode raises an important question: How should men with advanced prostate cancer balance longevity, treatment side effects, and quality of life?Timestamps:(00:40) What happens when prostate cancer spreads?(02:06) Patient story #1: When treatment affects quality of life(03:48) Introducing the experimental BAM hormone protocol(05:04) Can improved vitality come at the expense of longevity?(05:49) Patient story #2: An older man's fight to maintain independence(07:13) Testosterone treatment, PSA changes, and quality of life(09:20) Patient story #3: Metastatic prostate cancer and a PSA of 353(10:40) Treatment decisions after cancer spreads to the bones(11:43) Managing bone pain and adjusting hormone treatment(13:37) Why Dr. Petteruti prioritizes vitality alongside cancer treatment(14:58) The ProtecT trial and questions about conventional treatmentEnjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone, and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.📚 ResourcesDr. Petteruti Men's Vitality Grouphttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/membershipFight Cancer Like a Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Fight-Cancer-Like-Man-Breakthrough/dp/B0GP6JHQTQDr. Petteruti's Newsletterhttps://drstephenpetteruti.substack.com/subscribePodcast Show Noteshttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/podcast-notes🌐 Learn MoreDr. Stephen Petterutihttps://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/Intellectual Medicinehttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/📱 Connect with Dr. PetterutiInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti🎧 Listen to the PodcastApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intellectual-medicine/id1458649409Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3om1BQGP8f0hODZ6neWCd1#Overdiagnosis #ProstateHealth #MensVitality #ActiveSurveillanceDisclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.

  3. Oct 13

    Prostate Cancer Diet: Can You Still Eat Sugar, Meat, and Dairy?

    Can you really starve prostate cancer by changing what you eat? And do you need to give up sugar, meat, and dairy after a prostate cancer diagnosis?In this episode of Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti explores the relationship between nutrition, cancer metabolism, and prostate health. He explains why attempting to deprive cancer cells of nutrients is more complicated than simply eliminating sugar, and why maintaining healthy cells is equally important.Dr. Petteruti discusses the potential concerns surrounding processed and charred meats, glutamine, and dairy products, emphasizing food preparation, portion sizes, and individual responses to certain foods. He also examines the relationship between excess body fat, inflammation, vitamin D, estrogen, and mTOR, a pathway involved in cell growth.The conversation also covers foods he recommends incorporating into a balanced diet, including green tea, tomatoes, broccoli, and mushrooms, alongside his perspective on supplements, juicing, and intermittent fasting.Throughout the episode, Dr. Petteruti encourages a practical, sustainable approach to nutrition rather than restrictive diets or eliminating entire food groups.Timestamps:(00:00) Can you starve cancer through diet?(01:00) Why cutting out sugar isn't enough to starve cancer(02:09) Meat and prostate cancer: Does preparation matter?(03:40) Glutamine: A nutrient needed by cancer cells and healthy cells(05:14) Dairy, milk, and inflammation(07:20) Portion sizes: Can too much healthy food be harmful?(09:16) Green tea, tomatoes, and broccoli: Foods with potential health benefits(11:05) Body fat, vitamin D, and prostate cancer risk(12:35) Estrogen and its potential role in prostate cancer(13:04) Understanding mTOR and cell growth(14:04) Juicing, intermittent fasting, and muscle health(15:32) Mushrooms versus mushroom supplements(16:53) Building a balanced diet without eliminating foods you enjoyEnjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone, and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.📚 ResourcesDr. Petteruti Men's Vitality Grouphttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/membershipFight Cancer Like a Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Fight-Cancer-Like-Man-Breakthrough/dp/B0GP6JHQTQDr. Petteruti's Newsletterhttps://drstephenpetteruti.substack.com/subscribePodcast Show Noteshttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/podcast-notes🌐 Learn MoreDr. Stephen Petterutihttps://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/Intellectual Medicinehttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/📱 Connect with Dr. PetterutiInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti🎧 Listen to the PodcastApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intellectual-medicine/id1458649409Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3om1BQGP8f0hODZ6neWCd1#Overdiagnosis #ProstateHealth #MensVitality #ActiveSurveillanceDisclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.

  4. Oct 6

    Surgery vs. Radiation For Prostate Cancer: What Should You Choose?

    When men with prostate cancer are presented with surgery or radiation, how should they evaluate the evidence behind those choices?In this episode of Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti examines a 2024 study comparing prostatectomy with radiation therapy for early-stage prostate cancer. Rather than focusing only on the study’s headline conclusion, he looks at how the research was designed, which patients were included, what comparison group was missing, and who funded the study.Dr. Petteruti also discusses the reported side effects of surgery and radiation and explains why he believes potential treatment-related harm should play a larger role in decision-making. He contrasts the study with findings from the ProtecT trial and with outcomes he has observed among patients following his own protocol.The broader message is about looking beyond headlines when evaluating medical research. Dr. Petteruti encourages patients to examine how studies are structured, understand potential conflicts of interest, and consider whether surgery and radiation are the only approaches worth exploring.Timestamps:(00:45) Surgery or radiation: which is better?(01:46) Examining a 2024 prostate cancer study(03:27) What is missing from the comparison?(04:10) Comparing the study with the ProtecT trial(05:03) Who funded the research?(06:12) Side effects after surgery and radiation(07:59) Dr. Petteruti identifies a study design problem(08:27) Outcomes from the Petteruti Protocol(11:20) How to evaluate prostate cancer research(12:30) Looking beyond surgery and radiationReferences:Radical Prostatectomy Versus Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Clinically Localised Prostate Cancer: Results of the PACE-A Randomised Trial- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39266383/Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone, and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.📚 ResourcesDr. Petteruti Men's Vitality Grouphttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/membershipFight Cancer Like a Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Fight-Cancer-Like-Man-Breakthrough/dp/B0GP6JHQTQDr. Petteruti's Newsletterhttps://drstephenpetteruti.substack.com/subscribePodcast Show Noteshttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/podcast-notes🌐 Learn MoreDr. Stephen Petterutihttps://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/Intellectual Medicinehttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/📱 Connect with Dr. PetterutiInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti🎧 Listen to the PodcastApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intellectual-medicine/id1458649409Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3om1BQGP8f0hODZ6neWCd1#Overdiagnosis #ProstateHealth #MensVitality #ActiveSurveillanceDisclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.

  5. Oct 5

    Can I Live With Prostate Cancer?

    A prostate cancer diagnosis can immediately raise one frightening question: How long do I have? In this episode of Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti argues that there is another question worth asking: How do you want to live?Dr. Petteruti explores the difference between lifespan, health span and sexual lifespan, and explains why he believes vitality and quality of life should be central considerations when evaluating prostate cancer treatment. He discusses early-stage and metastatic prostate cancer, the potential consequences of treatment, and the importance of understanding what a particular intervention may realistically accomplish.The episode also examines the difficult balance between pursuing longevity and preserving quality of life. Dr. Petteruti encourages men to take time after a diagnosis, seek professional guidance, understand their options and consider their overall health rather than allowing fear to drive an immediate decision.Living longer matters, but so does the health, independence and vitality of the life being preserved.Timestamps:(00:01) The fear that follows a prostate cancer diagnosis(01:18) Lifespan, health span and sexual lifespan(02:17) Ask a better question: How do you want to live?(03:10) Looking beyond cancer to your overall health(04:43) Why Dr. Petteruti recommends pausing before treatment decisions(06:19) When prostate cancer has spread to the bones(07:49) Longevity versus quality of life(10:46) Can you become an outlier?(11:49) Do you have to sacrifice quality for longevity?(12:12) Getting guidance and understanding your options(14:21) The value of the life you are living right now(15:05) Why sacrificing vitality for longevity can be a bad tradeEnjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone, and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.📚 ResourcesDr. Petteruti Men's Vitality Grouphttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/membershipFight Cancer Like a Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Fight-Cancer-Like-Man-Breakthrough/dp/B0GP6JHQTQDr. Petteruti's Newsletterhttps://drstephenpetteruti.substack.com/subscribePodcast Show Noteshttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/podcast-notes🌐 Learn MoreDr. Stephen Petterutihttps://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/Intellectual Medicinehttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/📱 Connect with Dr. PetterutiInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti🎧 Listen to the PodcastApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intellectual-medicine/id1458649409Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3om1BQGP8f0hODZ6neWCd1#Overdiagnosis #ProstateHealth #MensVitality #ActiveSurveillanceDisclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.

  6. Sep 22

    Gleason 8 Prostate Cancer in His Late 50s — What Happened One Year Later?

    What happens when a prostate cancer diagnosis points toward aggressive treatment, but the patient decides to pause and consider another approach?In this episode of Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti shares the case of a man in his late 50s diagnosed with Gleason 8 prostate cancer. Rather than immediately pursuing prostate removal, radiation, or hormone therapy, the patient chose Dr. Petteruti’s protocol and continued monitoring his disease. Dr. Petteruti walks through the patient’s PSA and MRI findings and explains why, in his approach, preventing progression while preserving health, sexual function, and quality of life can represent a successful outcome.One year later, the patient’s PSA remained relatively stable while his PI-RADS score changed from 4 to 3. Dr. Petteruti also discusses PRECISE scoring, repurposed drugs, supplements, and the importance he places on evaluating changes in the prostate over time. The case raises a broader question: should prostate cancer treatment focus primarily on eliminating disease, or can carefully monitored containment sometimes be a meaningful goal?Timestamps: (00:28) A Gleason 8 prostate cancer diagnosis (02:16) Why the patient paused before choosing treatment (02:46) Choosing a different protocol (03:08) Understanding the patient’s PI-RADS 4 MRI (03:48) Dr. Petteruti’s goal of containing prostate cancer (05:41) What Dr. Petteruti’s treatment protocol involves (07:18) One year later: PSA and MRI results (08:39) Using PRECISE scores to monitor progression (10:19) Why Dr. Petteruti doesn’t “declare victory” (13:05) Results Dr. Petteruti reports from his protocol (13:54) Why lowering PSA isn’t the only goal (14:20) Treating the patient instead of the numberResources: The Great Prostate Hoax (Richard J. Ablin and Ronald Piana): https://www.amazon.com/dp/1137278749Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone, and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.📚 ResourcesDr. Petteruti Men's Vitality Grouphttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/membershipFight Cancer Like a Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Fight-Cancer-Like-Man-Breakthrough/dp/B0GP6JHQTQDr. Petteruti's Newsletterhttps://drstephenpetteruti.substack.com/subscribePodcast Show Noteshttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/podcast-notes🌐 Learn MoreDr. Stephen Petterutihttps://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/Intellectual Medicinehttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/📱 Connect with Dr. PetterutiInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti🎧 Listen to the PodcastApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intellectual-medicine/id1458649409Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3om1BQGP8f0hODZ6neWCd1#Overdiagnosis #ProstateHealth #MensVitality #ActiveSurveillanceDisclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.

  7. Sep 15

    His PSA Was 16. But That Wasn’t the Number That Worried Me

    A man in his 60s feels healthy, but his PSA has climbed above 16 and his MRI shows a PI-RADS 5 lesion. With the focus firmly on prostate cancer, Dr. Stephen Petteruti asks a different question: what else was wrong?Dr. Petteruti follows his patient’s story and challenges the idea that PSA alone should determine whether a patient’s treatment is successful. He discusses his approach to biopsy, monitoring, repeat MRI and PRECISE scoring, and why he always considers disease stability, symptoms and quality of life alongside PSA trends.Then another test changes the picture. A coronary calcium scan reveals a score over 900, uncovering a significant cardiovascular risk that had received far less attention than the patient’s prostate cancer.Through the episode, Dr. Petteruti explores a larger question: when treating cancer, are we focusing so closely on the disease and its numbers that we risk overlooking the health of the person living with it?Timestamps: (00:29) How should we define successful prostate cancer treatment? (01:52) A patient with a PSA over 16 (02:30) What a PI-RADS 5 MRI means (03:08) Dr. Petteruti’s perspective on prostate biopsy (04:59) Stability versus curing prostate cancer (06:59) Using MRI and PRECISE scoring to monitor progression (08:10) Looking beyond prostate cancer to overall health (10:16) The heart scan that revealed a calcium score over 900 (11:31) Does lowering PSA always mean treatment is working? (12:08) When treatment becomes focused on the number instead of the patientEnjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone, and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.📚 ResourcesDr. Petteruti Men's Vitality Grouphttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/membershipFight Cancer Like a Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Fight-Cancer-Like-Man-Breakthrough/dp/B0GP6JHQTQDr. Petteruti's Newsletterhttps://drstephenpetteruti.substack.com/subscribePodcast Show Noteshttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/podcast-notes🌐 Learn MoreDr. Stephen Petterutihttps://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/Intellectual Medicinehttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/📱 Connect with Dr. PetterutiInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti🎧 Listen to the PodcastApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intellectual-medicine/id1458649409Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3om1BQGP8f0hODZ6neWCd1#Overdiagnosis #ProstateHealth #MensVitality #ActiveSurveillanceDisclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.

  8. Sep 8

    What To Expect After Prostate Surgery: PSA, Sex & Recovery

    What happens after prostate cancer surgery, and what can you do when recovery doesn’t look the way you expected? In this episode of Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti discusses life after prostatectomy, with a focus on sexual function, urinary symptoms, energy, hormonal health, and the possibility of a rising PSA.He explores options that may be discussed for erectile dysfunction and libido, including oral medications, TriMix and PT-141, before examining the more complex question of testosterone therapy after prostate cancer. He also explains biochemical recurrence and why he believes patients should understand what a rising PSA means before automatically pursuing additional treatment.The episode then turns to androgen deprivation therapy, including Dr. Petteruti’s perspective on treatment timing, quality of life, treatment resistance, and cardiovascular health. His central message is that men should remain actively involved in their care after prostatectomy, ask questions about their options, and not assume that changes in sexual function, vitality, or quality of life simply have to be accepted.Timestamps: (00:34) What happens after prostatectomy? (01:59) Restoring erectile function after surgery (03:16) Libido and sexual health after prostatectomy (04:28) Urinary leakage and bladder changes (06:09) Testosterone therapy after prostate cancer (08:33) Understanding biochemical recurrence (09:12) Should a rising PSA automatically trigger more treatment? (11:49) Dr. Petteruti’s perspective on timing ADT (14:29) ADT and cardiovascular health (15:08) Taking an active role in recovery (16:02) Don’t let PSA numbers control your lifeResources:Impact of Hormonal Therapies – https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/HCG.0000000000000082Biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5815528/Radical Prostatectomy -https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34124138/Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone, and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.📚 ResourcesDr. Petteruti Men's Vitality Grouphttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/membershipFight Cancer Like a Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Fight-Cancer-Like-Man-Breakthrough/dp/B0GP6JHQTQDr. Petteruti's Newsletterhttps://drstephenpetteruti.substack.com/subscribePodcast Show Noteshttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/podcast-notes🌐 Learn MoreDr. Stephen Petterutihttps://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/Intellectual Medicinehttps://www.intellectualmedicine.com/📱 Connect with Dr. PetterutiInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti🎧 Listen to the PodcastApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intellectual-medicine/id1458649409Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3om1BQGP8f0hODZ6neWCd1#Overdiagnosis #ProstateHealth #MensVitality #ActiveSurveillanceDisclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.

4.7
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Dr. Stephen Petteruti brings more than 30 years of medical experience to candid conversations about prostate cancer, men's health, hormones, longevity, and the decisions that affect how men live and age. Get the research, clinical perspective, and questions worth asking before making health decisions.

You Might Also Like