The Wright Center, Dietitian Turns Tragedy Into Life’s Purpose Making men’s health a priority Melissa Germano, M.S., RD, LDN, still tears up a little when she talks about her father’s sudden, fatal cardiac arrest in 2010 – when she was just 23. “It was a devastating shock and an experience in life that was heartbreaking for me, my mom, and my two sisters when he passed so suddenly. My dad didn’t seem sick, but his health was affected by risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol,” Germano said. “Men can take control of their health by addressing these factors through preventive measures and lifestyle changes which can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health complications.” His death inspired Germano to pursue a career helping other families avoid the same grief. After earning a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Marywood University and a master’s degree in human nutrition from the University of Alabama, the registered dietitian and director of lifestyle modification and preventive medicine at The Wright Center for Community Health helps others lead healthier, more active lives. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men in the United States, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Lung cancer claims more men’s lives than any other cancer, while prostate and colorectal cancers rank as the second and third most common causes of cancer-related deaths in men. Additionally, 34% of adult men in the U.S. are obese, and 32% have hypertension, according to CMS. Despite these serious health risks, many men avoid visiting the doctor due to fear, embarrassment, time constraints, or a strong sense of self-reliance. Men’s Health Month, celebrated each June, aims to raise awareness of preventable health issues and promote early detection and treatment to improve men’s well-being. “Many men do not prioritize their health, often putting off checkups, ignoring symptoms, or prioritizing work and other responsibilities over self-care,” Germano said. “This can lead to undiagnosed health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes – many of which can be prevented or managed with early intervention.” The first step to better health? Schedule a checkup with a primary care physician, Germano said. Establishing a relationship with a doctor can help identify health problems early and get patients on track with essential screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and cancers. Meeting with a registered dietician can also empower patients by providing them with knowledge and strategies to take control of their health. Germano – and dieticians like her – can help patients develop a plan that incorporates small lifestyle changes that add up to big improvements over time. “Many men don’t think about how their diet and lifestyle might impact their health,” Germano said. “What you’re eating, if you’re smoking or drinking, it all impacts your physical health, mental health, sexual health, and longevity. “Men have unique nutritional needs that vary depending on factors such as age, activity level, and overall health,” she added. “Men can optimize their overall health and vitality by consuming a well-balanced diet that includes adequate protein for muscle health, a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, and healthy fat sources to support heart health. They should also stay physically active by combining strength training with cardiovascular exercise, ensure they drink enough water, and limit the amount of sugary beverages they consume.” Germano tells patients to start by focusing on building well-balanced plates for meals, which is one of the most effective ways for men to maintain energy, muscle health, and long-term health. She recommends filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables to boost antioxidants and fiber and one-quarter with lean proteins to support muscle growth and metabolism. The remaining quarter should be filled with whole grains to provide long-lasting energy. Choosing what to eat is important, too. Here are some of Germano’s tips: Most men do not consume enough fiber, which can lead to constipation, high cholesterol, blood sugar imbalances, and increased risk of chronic diseases. Get your fiber in by swapping refined grains (like white bread and pastries) for whole grains, consume fruits and vegetables with peels or skins on, add dried beans and peas to casseroles or soups, and enjoy a variety of grains such as barley, oats, farro, and quinoa. Protein is critical for muscle health, repair, and growth, but choose lean protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and low-fat dairy. Incorporate more plant-based proteins – including peas, lentils, beans, tofu, edamame, nuts, and seeds – that are high in phytonutrients, which have been shown to lower the risk of cancer and decrease cholesterol. Healthy fats are crucial for supporting heart health and overall well-being. Omega 3 fatty acids found in fatty fish such as salmon and trout, as well as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties and promote cardiovascular health. As a registered dietician, Germano said she finds it deeply rewarding to see a patient progressing toward better health. “Every success, no matter how small, is a huge win for my patients,” she said. “Whether it’s weight loss, improved lab results, better energy levels, or healthier eating habits, the success is a testament to the patient’s hard work and dedication. It means my support and guidance are making a real impact.” Headquartered in Scranton, The Wright Center for Community Health’s growing network of community health centers in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Wayne, and Wyoming counties, including a mobile medical and dental unit called Driving Better Health, provides affordable, high-quality, whole-person primary health services to everyone, regardless of insurance status, ZIP code, or ability to pay. Patients typically have the convenience of going to a single location to access integrated medical, dental, and behavioral health care, as well as community-based addiction treatment and recovery services. For more information, go to TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019. Melissa Germano, a registered dietician and director of lifestyle modification and preventative medicine at The Wright Center for Community Health, shops for produce at Gerrity’s Supermarket in Scranton The Wright Center for Community Health offers lifestyle and obesity medicine programs at its community health centers in Northeast Pennsylvania. Melissa Germano said men should strive for a diet that includes a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, adequate protein, and healthy fat sources
Settlers Hospitality Expands to Downtown Scranton Ale Mary’s Under New Management A Scranton-based developer and Pocono Mountains hospitality group are joining forces to reinvigorate a landmark in the Electric City. ATR Properties tapped Settlers Hospitality to manage restaurant operations at Ale Mary’s at the historic Bittenbender. The historic building at 126 Franklin Street has been a part of the cityscape for nearly 150 years. In 2014 ATR Properties owner, Art Russo, revamped the previous restaurant model to open a popular gastropub and sports bar. For over a decade Ale Mary’s has been a go-to downtown destination for drinks, dinner and a distinctive event venue. With this new venture, Settlers Hospitality plans to reimagine the layout of the 150-seat restaurant and craft new menu offerings, but still in keeping with the gastropub concept. A rotating selection of nearly 100 craft and import beers, for which Ale Mary’s is known, will continue. Guests can expect a variety of appetizer and entrée options that are both craveable and affordable. “Settlers Hospitality shares our commitment to preserving the region’s historical treasures and has a proven track record of community and economic revitalization that makes this partnership virtually seamless,” explains owner Art Russo. Settlers Hospitality has been a leader in boutique hotel and restaurant management for over 40 years with a collection of concepts in Lehigh Valley, the Pocono Mountains, Catskills and Scranton regions. The company is eager to bring its highly regarded reputation and established brand name to the vibrant customer base in Scranton. “We are delighted to grow operations in Lackawanna County by expanding our footprint into downtown Scranton,” states CEO Justin Genzlinger. “The business ethos of Ale Mary’s at Bittenbender aligns with our core values to preserve our community’s historic real estate treasures and take responsibility to sustain their survival looking forward. Coupled with our non-negotiable passion to provide quality, unique experiences for every guest, it is a recipe for success.” The restaurant will remain open throughout the transition, which becomes official on July 1. Plans also include the relaunch of Madam Jenny’s, Ale Mary’s speakeasy style nightclub, in the fall. For more information, visit SettlersHospitality.com.
Greater Scranton YMCA Receives Grant from Step Into Swim In September, the Greater Scranton YMCA was awarded a grant from Step Into Swim to support scholarships for swim lessons. Step Into Swim is the nationwide drowning prevention initiative of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) dedicated to creating safe swimmers. Through this grant award, the Y’s goal is to offer a session of swim lessons, which consists of eight lessons, to families who otherwise may not be able to participate due to cost. Grant funding will provide the YMCA with the capacity to offer participating families a 75 percent subsidy, making them responsible to pay only 25 percent of the swim lesson session fee. “We are so grateful to Step Into Swim for allowing our YMCA to provide swim lessons to more children in our community,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “We believe all kids should have the opportunity to learn the lifesaving skill of swimming and thanks to this grant award, we will be able to provide lessons to children who may otherwise not be able to participate due to cost.” To award the lessons, the Greater Scranton YMCA has created a Google Form that interested families can complete. In addition to collecting parent and child information, the form also includes questions about household income and family size to ensure the lessons are being awarded to families in need. The Google Form will open on Wednesday, May 28th and will close when lessons are filled. The form can be accessed here: https://forms.gle/Gt3Er3EG87sjH8nF6. The four-week swim lesson session will consist of two lessons weekly. The session will begin the week of June 23rd. For more information about the Step Into Swim scholarship swim lessons at the Greater Scranton YMCA, contact Leslie Kopa, Aquatics Director, at lkopa@gsymca.org.
PA Treasury Rep Steve Shope to Visit DACC The Danville Area Community Center (DACC) will host Steve Shope, a representative from Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity’s Office on Wednesday, May 28, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. to assist local residents in searching for unclaimed property in the state’s archives. The event is free and open to the public, with no reservations or documents required. He will give a brief overview of consumer programs before helping attendees check for unclaimed property in their name. Unclaimed property can include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts, and more. Statewide, more than $4.5 billion in unclaimed property is waiting to be returned — including over $15 million owed to Lycoming County residents alone. The average claim is worth $1,600, and about one in ten Pennsylvanians is owed money. For more information, contact DACC Director of Community Engagement Mark Giesen 570-275-3001.
PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces 500 Military Decorations Returned Treasurer Stacy Garrity today announced that 500 military decorations and memorabilia have been returned to Veterans and their families since she took office in 2021. “As state treasurer, I safeguard every taxpayer dollar, but one of my favorite parts of the job isn’t about the money at all – it’s the work Treasury does to honor and thank our Veterans and their families by returning military medals that become unclaimed property,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Each item that comes to our vault is an important part of someone’s story, and returning each one to the rightful owner who earned it or their family is a way to show our gratitude for their immense sacrifices for our nation’s defense.” The 500 medals and memorabilia returned by Treasurer Garrity include 12 Purple Hearts, three Bronze Stars and one Gold Star Medal. Treasury’s vault in Harrisburg still holds about 500 military decorations, including those from every branch of service and most major conflicts. Items include medals, pins, buttons, ribbons and more. Military decorations most often come to Treasury’s unclaimed property program as the contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes. “The team at Treasury is dedicated to finding the Veterans and families whose medals are in our care,” Treasurer Garrity said. “From cold calls to deep-dive internet searches, and digging through records, they leave no stone unturned in the search for a Veteran. As long as I’m Treasurer, we will never stop searching for the rightful owners. I encourage everyone to help us in the search for these Veterans and their families.” Anyone can help find the owners of the medals in Treasury’s care by visiting patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property/Medals. A few notable military returns include: A Bronze Star and engraved military funeral bullet casing to the family of Frank Musto, a U.S. Army Veteran who served his country during World War II. Musto, from Westmoreland County, enlisted when he was 19, and he was wounded in France. He was also the recipient of the Purple Heart, WWII Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, and European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal. Multiple Medals including the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Korea Medal and Korean War Service 50th Anniversary Medal earned by the late Timothy Marahoris of Harrisburg were returned to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Marahoris served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He had no living relatives, and his church family accepted his decorations in his honor. A Gold Star Mothers and Widows Pilgrimage Medal was returned to the Morrison family. The medal, presented to Agnes Morrison in 1933 when she visited her son, Joseph William Morrison’s grave in France. Morrison, from Schuylkill County, was a member of the 554th Ambulance Service in World War I. He was killed in action just ten days before the end of the war. He was also the recipient of the Croix de Guerre with palm for his bravery. “As a Veteran myself, every return is near and dear to my heart,” Treasurer Garrity said. “It’s my solemn duty to make sure every medal in our care is returned to the Veteran who earned it or to their family who also made tremendous sacrifices for our country.” Along with the hundreds of military decorations waiting to be reunited with Veterans, Treasurer Garrity is working to return more than $5 billion worth of unclaimed property in Treasury’s care. More than one in ten Pennsylvanians has unclaimed property, and the average value of a claim is $1,000. Unclaimed property includes things like dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance policies, and more. Most tangible unclaimed property comes from abandoned safety deposit boxes and can include things like jewelry, baseball cards, and other collectibles and family valuables. Visit patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property to search for unclaimed property.
Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, MOM-n-PA Dental Missions to Give Free Services at Community Event WHO: MOM-n-PA Dental Missions (www.mom-n-pa.com) WHAT: Press conference featuring local dental chairs, Dr. Christopher Kotchick and Dr. Richard Grossman, state & local politicians, and key representatives demonstrating the power of this FREE community event. MOM-n-PA provides FREE dental care for the relief of pain to thousands of the neediest, many of whom are from working families who do not have access or cannot afford dental insurance. WHERE: Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, 255 Highland Park Boulevard, Wilkes-Barre Township, PA WHEN: Friday, June 6, 2025 at 10 am. Set-up will be on Thursday, June 5 starting at 8:00 a.m. TV and still photographers often find significant opportunities, as the empty arena will be turned into a 120 dental chair clinic in a few short hours. MOM-n-PA believes that everyone deserves an opportunity to receive dental care regardless of income or current economic situation. For that reason, MOM-n-PA provides annual, free, dental clinics throughout Pennsylvania. With 120 mobile dental units over a two-day span, patients are accepted without qualifications, on a first come, first served basis. MOM-n-PA has approximately 1000 volunteers including more than 200 dentists, 100 dental hygienists, and 200 dental assistants, 150 dental students, 30 nurses and 300 lay volunteers. Since 2013, clinics have been in Philadelphia, Allentown, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, Erie, Reading, and Wilkes- Barre/Scranton. This year’s event will take place at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, 255 Highland Park Boulevard, Wilkes-Barre Township, with local dentists and Co-Chairs Dr. Christopher Kotchick and Dr. Richard Grossman, spearheading the effort. Over the course of the two day span, MOM-n-PA is expected to treat up to 2000 patients, providing approximately $1,000,000 worth of services, including medical screenings, dental exams with X-Rays when necessary, cleanings, extractions, fillings, root canals and a limited number of partial dentures, without accepting any fees. “Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has been selected as a site because of the needs within the community and its surrounding areas,” stated Dr. Gary Davis of Shippensburg, MOM-n-PA Chairman. “We are a 100% volunteer organization and can use all the volunteer assistance and support we can get from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton community to provide these services to those families and individuals who do not have access to any dental care.” According to the US Census Bureau, estimated statistics for a sample household over a 5 year period demonstrate that 35.9% of residents had income below the poverty level, as compared to 17.7% in the entire state. Additionally, 11.5% of residents had income below 50% of the poverty level, as compared to 6.1% in the entire state and 45.3% of children live below the poverty level, as compared to 19.0% in the entire state. Unfortunately, families and individuals representing these characteristics often do not have access to any dental care. MOM-n-PA is designed to address this undeserved population by providing those services and seeking to establish a location where the patients will be able to receive future dental services. For more information about the event visit www.mom-n-pa.com.
Mohegan Pennsylvania, New Premium Seating for Party on the Patio Also being introduced is Party in the Pit – a $5 Blackjack, Spanish 21, and Three Card Poker section across from The Hive Taphouse Mohegan Pennsylvania is excited to announce a brand new Premium Seating option for the most popular concert series in NEPA: Party on the Patio! The 16th year of Party on the Patio kicked off at Mohegan Pennsylvania on Thursday, May 1st and has been delivering can’t-miss live entertainment every Thursday night since. With 16 more weeks remaining, guests will now have the option to experience the concert series with special Premium Seating. This exclusive upgrade, available up to 100 guests, offers guaranteed seating close to the action, personal beverage service, and access to a standing lounge area — all for only $10. Guests can purchase Premium Seating tickets for their favorite shows HERE. Please note that due to limited availability and high demand for this experience, all sales are final and non-refundable. Mohegan Pennsylvania is also excited to introduce a fresh new table games area, exclusively for Party on the Patio nights. Party in the Pit, which is located across from The Hive Taphouse, will feature $5 Blackjack, Spanish 21, and Three Card Poker. This special table games section will be available on Thursday nights starting at 6:00pm. The full list of featured bands* for the remainder of Party on the Patio is as follows: 5/29/25: Mamma Mania!, NYC’s Premier ABBA Tribute 6/5/25: Crash My Party, a tribute to Luke Bryan 6/12/25: Back in Black, a tribute to AC/DC 6/19/25: Best of the Eagles, a tribute to the Eagles 6/26/25: Jay Bon Jovi, a tribute to Bon Jovi 7/3/25: Rubix Kube, The Eighties Strikes Back show 7/10/25: Philadelphia Freedom, a tribute to Elton John 7/17/25: Bostyx, a tribute to Boston & Styx 7/24/25: Completely Unchained, a tribute to Van Halen 7/31/25: Fame, a tribute to David Bowie 8/7/25: The Amish Outlaws, Pennsylvania’s Hottest Cover Band 8/14/25: New York’s Finest, a tribute to the Police 8/21/25: Stevie Mac, a tribute to Fleetwood Mac 8/28/25: Idol Kings, a tribute to REO Speedwagon & Journey 9/4/25: Draw the Line, a tribute to Aerosmith 9/11/25: Motley 2, a tribute to Mötley Crüe *Lineup subject to change All guests for Party on the Patio must be 21+ and no portable chairs are permitted. For additional POTP guidelines and additional info, please visit moheganpa.com/potp.
Johnson College Spring 2025 Semester President’s List Dr. Katie Pittelli, President & CEO of Johnson College, has announced the President’s List of students who have completed the 2025 Spring Semester with a grade point average of 3.70 or higher. Mariah Adryan, Radiologic Technology, Scranton, PA; Braeden Alvord, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Clifford Township, PA; James Austin, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, Roaring Brook Twp., PA; Charlize Barhite, Veterinary Nursing, Clifford Township, PA; Thomas Bartrige, Diesel Truck Technology, Gouldsboro, PA; Tiffany Beckham, Radiologic Technology, Scranton, PA; Tucker Bowman, Electrical Construction Technology, Tamaqua, PA; Colleen Cannon-Augustine, Physical Therapist Assistant, Jenkins Twp., PA; Brady Carpenter, Computer Information Technology, Clarks Summit, PA; Dylan Caruso, Computer Information Technology, Dallas, PA; Jacob Casarin, Electrical Construction Technology, Jessup, PA; James Casarin, Electrical Construction Technology, Jessup, PA; Michael Chapman, Welding Fabrication & Manufacturing Technology, Archbald, PA; Nico Colachino, Diesel Truck Technology, Olyphant, PA; Ariel Collins, Electrical Construction Technology, Clarks Summit, PA; Cameron Collins, Electrical Construction Technology, Jermyn, PA; Joshua Cook, Radiologic Technology, Swoyersville, PA; Kenneth Cotton, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Clifford Township, PA; Emma Danowsky, Veterinary Nursing, Lewisburg, PA; Gerard Dolinsky III, Diesel Truck Technology, Scott Twp., PA; William Dotzel, Electronic Engineering Technology, Eynon, PA; Andrew Francis, Electrical Construction Technology, Moosic, PA; Ethan Gardiner, Electrical Construction Technology, Summit Hill, PA; Mackenzie Gavin, Radiologic Technology, Eynon, PA; Hanaa Gohsler, Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, Dickson City, PA; Jennifer Gonzalez Rodriguez, Radiologic Technology, Scranton, PA; Tim Griffin, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Clarks Summit, PA; Alyssa Hall, Automotive Technology, Carbondale, PA; James Hancock, Automotive Technology, Clarks Green, PA; Cameron Hedgelon, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Honesdale, PA; Kael Heflin, Computer Information Technology, Lake Ariel, PA; Steven Hinkley, Electrical Construction Technology, Amherst, VA; Joshua Keifer, Diesel Truck Technology, Lake Ariel, PA; Dakota Kempka, Electronic Engineering Technology, Factoryville, PA; Evan Kilgore, Electronic Engineering Technology, Scranton, PA; Michael Kishel, Computer Information Technology, Pittston, PA; Henry Korman, Electrical Construction Technology, Lakeville, PA; Harrison Kubilus, Electrical Construction Technology, Scranton, PA; Julia Lamberton, Radiologic Technology, Waymart, PA; Hunter Landers, Automotive Technology, Clarks Summit, PA; Michaelangelo Lanzaro, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, Gouldsboro, PA; Skyler LeClere, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, Beach Lake, PA; Anthony Leombruni, Aviation Technology, Moscow, PA; Corey Lesnefsky, Diesel Truck Technology, Olyphant, PA; Lucas Lorenzetti, Automotive Technology, Throop, PA; Daniel Marcus, Electrical Construction Technology, Greeley, PA; Zachary Maryasz, Mechatronics Technology, Dalton, PA; Jade McDermott, Radiologic Technology, Moosic, PA; Jacob Mileto, Electrical Construction Technology, Scranton, PA; Jessica Miller, Veterinary Nursing, Mechanicsburg, PA; Mason Miluszusky, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, Richmondale, PA; Carter Mistishin, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Lake Ariel, PA; Tyler Moskosky, Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, Simpson, PA; Sean Munson, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Nanticoke, PA; Jacob Mutsavage, Computer Information Technology, Throop, PA; Weston Nugent, Diesel Truck Technology, Lake Ariel, PA; Gabriel Pesce, Mechatronics Technology, Hawley, PA; Alyssa Resio, Radiologic Technology, Old Forge, PA; Vincent Rinaldi, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Scranton, PA; Liam Rooney, Biomedical Equipment Technology, Springbrook Township, PA; Adam Rosencrance, Radiologic Technology, West Pittston, PA; Daniel Rosenkrans, Electrical Construction Technology, Falls, PA; Amara Rubino, Aviation Technology, Henryville, PA; Abigail Schroder, Architectural Drafting & Design Technology, Scranton, PA; Ryan Shannon, Diesel Truck Technology, Pittston Township, PA; Emma Shedden, Mechatronics Technology, Tunkhannock, PA; Nicholas Shimo, Computer Information Technology, Scranton, PA; Wyatt Sickler, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Tunkhannock, PA; Madison Stashak, Physical Therapist Assistant, Nanticoke, PA; Connor Stauffer, Electrical Construction Technology, Fern Glen, PA; Sierra Stonier, Veterinary Nursing, Monroe Township, PA; Ragu Subedi, Computer Information Technology, Scranton, PA; Jack Sullivan, Electrical Construction Technology, Matamoras, PA; Nicholas Thayer, Mechatronics Technology, Pittston, PA; Logan Treat, Welding Fabrication & Manufacturing Technology, Falls, PA; Julia Turner, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology, Moosic, PA; Clarence Walton, Heavy Equipment Technology, Dingmans Ferry, PA; Kayla Ward, Radiologic Technology, Eynon, PA; Reece Weinberg, Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology, South Abington Township, PA; Noah Wijaya, Automotive Technology, Roaring Brook Twp., PA; Austin Wombacker, Electrical Construction Technology, Scranton, PA; Kori Yencho, Physical Therapist Assistant, Throop, PA; Peter Zawierucha, Electrical Construction Technology, Pittston Twp., PA
Geisinger Recommends Six Tips to Prevent Prostate Cancer With a heavy focus on former President Joe Biden’s recent diagnosis, its time to shed some light on the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men By: Matthew Meissner, MD, urology, Geisinger Most people likely don’t think about their prostate gland until there’s trouble. However, there’s a good reason to keep it on your radar, especially as you get older. After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men. The good news: Although the likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases as you age, there are practical ways to lower your risk. You may already be taking proactive measures without even realizing it. Many of the same steps you’re taking to protect your heart also can help reduce your risk of prostate cancer. What is prostate cancer? Your prostate is a gland about the size of a walnut that sits in front of the rectum, below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra, the tube that moves urine out of the bladder. As part of the male reproductive system, the prostate is responsible for producing some of the fluid that contains semen. Prostate cancer develops when the healthy, normal cells in the prostate gland begin to “go rogue” by growing and functioning in a different way. These cancerous cells start to build up and form a mass called a tumor, which exists as a lump inside the body. While prostate cancer is common, the good news is that it’s highly curable with surgery or radiation therapy when diagnosed early. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for prostate cancer that’s confined entirely to the prostate gland is nearly 100%. And not all prostate cancers are the same. Certain types of prostate cancer are not aggressive and can be safely managed with close monitoring — a strategy known as ‘active surveillance. How to prevent prostate cancer While there is no surefire way to prevent prostate cancer, embracing these healthy habits can help reduce your risks — and improve your overall health. Even men at a greater risk due to age (over 50), race (African American) and a family history of prostate cancer and certain other cancers, including breast, pancreatic and colon, can reduce the likelihood of developing it by adopting these strategies. Exercise regularly Moving for even a few minutes a day not only lowers your risk of developing prostate cancer, but also other conditions, such as heart disease. Regular physical activity aids in weight management, improved immune function and decreased inflammation in the body, all of which can help prevent cancer. Work up to a goal of getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity workouts each week, such as brisk walking, bicycling, jogging or swimming, and strength training 2 or more days a week. Adopt a healthier diet Diets high in animal fat have been shown to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Instead, stick to eating a balanced diet chock-full of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats, like turkey and fish, to help reduce your risk. A diet rich in antioxidants is one of the most effective ways to support prostate health. Foods like tomatoes, broccoli, soy and green tea are thought to combat oxidative stress and promote cellular health. Maintain a healthy weight People considered obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of greater than 30, are at a higher risk for prostate cancer. Keeping in line with the previous points, a balanced diet and regular exercise can help you shed excess pounds and maintain a healthy weight. Drink coffee According to a Harvard study, people who drank 6 or more cups of coffee a day had a 20% lower risk of developing any form of prostate cancer. The lower risk was evident among those who drank regular or decaffeinated coffee — good news for many men who already enjoy a morning cup of joe (or several). However, the data is conflicting. And too much caffeine can be a negative for your health, with side effects like insomnia, headaches and irregular heartbeat, so talk to your doctor before trying this one. Stop smoking and limit alcohol Quitting smoking is beneficial in more ways than one. When you stop smoking, your risk of dying from prostate cancer can be reduced to the same as it is for someone who’s never smoked. And if you’ve already had prostate cancer, quitting smoking can lessen the chance that it will return. Avoiding alcohol is another way to protect your prostate. Recent research indicates that any amount of alcohol can increase your risk for cancer. But if you choose to drink, limit your consumption to no more than 2 drinks per day. Talk with your doctor about your risk Think you’re at a high risk of prostate cancer? Some types of medicine and supplements might help lower your chances of developing it. Discuss these options with your doctor and ask whether the benefits outweigh your risks. PSA testing Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening is a blood test used to check for prostate cancer. While prostate cancer is one of many things that can cause an elevated PSA, regular PSA testing has been shown to detect prostate cancer early and improve survival for certain people. In general, those between ages 55 and 69 will benefit from routine PSA checks, as early-stage prostate cancer may not cause any signs or symptoms. But not all men will benefit from PSA testing and it’s why you need to have an open conversation with your doctor about your family history and other risk factors, so you and your doctor can develop a tailored screening plan. Contact your doctor if prostate cancer symptoms show up The best way to detect prostate cancer early: Get regular screenings and learn to recognize prostate cancer symptoms, such as: Frequent urination, particularly at night Straining to urinate or having a weak flow Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying Pain or burning while urinating Blood in urine or semen Erectile dysfunction However, having one or more of these symptoms does not automatically mean you have prostate cancer. They can also indicate an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia. Prostate glands can get bigger with age. And when the prostate becomes larger, it puts extra pressure on the urethra, making you urinate more often, especially at night, or making it harder to “go” in general. An enlarged prostate is a natural part of getting older and it’s important for men to have regular checkups with their doctor and watch for prostate cancer symptoms. Being proactive about your health leads to timely medical intervention and a better quality of life. For the latest health and wellness tips and advice, visit geisinger.org/balance. To learn more about cancer care at Geisinger, visit geisinger.org/cancerinstitute. Dr. Meissner is a board-eligible and fellowship-trained urologist. He earned his medical degree from the University of Texas San Antonio School of Medicine. Dr. Meissner completed his residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and his fellowship at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Catherine McAuley Center to Host Menstrual Health Awareness Day PEP Rally The Catherine McAuley Center invites members of the Scranton community to a PEP Rally on Wednesday, May 28th to celebrate Menstrual Health Awareness Day (MHA Day). The “PEP” stands for Period Education Project and this rally will include not only celebrating the work that has been accomplished around period poverty but acknowledging what work lies ahead. The PEP Rally includes a product giveaway, snacks and refreshments, educational material, a judgment free zone for the opportunity to ask questions, and friendship bracelet making. The bracelet, 23 white beads and 5 red, not only represents the menstrual cycle but so much more. Beginning in 2013, Menstrual Health Awareness Day highlights the lack of education, ongoing taboos, and stigma that cause poor menstrual hygiene including a lack of access to products. MHA Day has two key aims. First, it breaks the taboo around menstrual health and hygiene. It raises awareness and shifts negative social norms. Second, it urges leaders to prioritize and act at global, national and local levels. The Catherine McAuley Center invites the community to its administration building to learn more about this movement and the Center’s Period Project. Event Details: Catherine McAuley Center PEP Rally for Menstrual Health Awareness Day When: Wednesday, May 28, 2025 Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where: Catherine McAuley Center 430 Pittston Avenue Scranton, PA 18505 The Catherine McAuley Center has provided programs and services to those experiencing homelessness in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties since 1984. Beyond a shelter of a roof and walls, the Center’s mission is to help the community break the cycle of poverty and address the trauma of homelessness. To learn how you can make a difference, please contact the Catherine McAuley Center at 570-342-1342. Press is welcome to attend.
