Intellectual Medicine

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A newer prostate cancer blood test is being promoted as 270% better than PSA, but what does that claim actually mean?In this episode of the Intellectual Medicine podcast, Dr. Stephen Petteruti examines the EpiSwitch PSE test, including its potential value, limitations, cost, and the research behind the widely cited 270% figure. He contrasts the test's yes-or-no risk assessment with PSA testing, emphasizing what he sees as PSA's key advantage: the ability to track changes over time.Dr. Petteruti also discusses how men and their physicians might approach an elevated PSA, the role of prostate MRI and biopsy in conventional care, and why he believes prostate cancer risk should be viewed as a long-term management challenge rather than a single diagnostic moment. He also raises questions about the sponsorship of the study behind the EpiSwitch claims while noting that industry involvement does not automatically invalidate the research.The episode concludes with a broader message: no test should be interpreted in isolation, and results should be considered in the context of a man's overall risk, health, and long-term monitoring strategy.Timestamps:(00:00) Is the EpiSwitch PSE really 270% better than PSA?(01:12) What the EpiSwitch PSE test can and can't tell you(02:09) The cost difference between EpiSwitch PSE and PSA(03:54) Why tracking PSA over time matters(05:46) Should you consider EpiSwitch after a high PSA?(07:17) Prostate cancer as a lifetime management challenge(08:08) The test versus how the test is interpreted(08:45) What an abnormal prostate MRI can mean(09:27) Looking at the study behind the "270% better" claim(10:20) The bottom line on EpiSwitch PSE versus PSAReferences:Circulating Chromosome Conformation Signatures Significantly Enhance PSA Positive Predicting Value and Overall Accuracy for Prostate Cancer Detection- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36765779/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.

Prostate cancer surgery is a major and irreversible decision, but how much do you actually know about your surgeon’s outcomes, the risks involved, and what happens after the operation?In this episode of Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti discusses the questions he believes men should ask before undergoing a prostatectomy. He examines reported differences in urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction outcomes, the importance of asking a surgeon for their own complication and recurrence rates, and why getting more than one surgical opinion may be worthwhile.Dr. Petteruti also discusses the role of PSMA PET imaging, surgeon selection, biochemical recurrence, and findings from the PIVOT trial. He explains his perspective on non-operative approaches while acknowledging that patients may ultimately make a different choice. The episode also addresses what happens after surgery, including postoperative planning and questions surrounding radiation therapy.Timestamps:(00:27) What doctors may not tell you before prostate cancer surgery(01:25) Understanding incontinence and erectile dysfunction rates(02:00) How to evaluate your surgeon’s actual outcomes(02:57) Asking about biochemical recurrence after prostatectomy(03:56) Why you should consider more than one surgical opinion(04:12) The role of a PSMA PET scan before surgery(05:00) Complication rates and researching your surgeon(06:10) What the PIVOT trial means for the surgery decision(07:16) Why you need a plan for what happens after surgery(08:23) Why Dr. Petteruti recommends taking time before deciding(09:59) Ask your surgeon: “Who would you choose for your own surgery?”(11:24) Considering the non-operative path and planning for recurrence(11:56) Radiation after prostatectomy: immediate or delayed?(13:01) Taking ownership of your treatment decisionReferences:Garner Health- https://www.garnerhealth.com/Biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy- https://www.deepdyve.com/lp/springer-journals/biochemical-recurrence-after-radical-prostatectomy-where-do-we-stand-2plJJEf6x4Enjoy 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

What can you do every day to support your health after a prostate cancer diagnosis without allowing cancer to take over your life?This week on Intellectual Medicine, Dr. Stephen Petteruti outlines five lifestyle areas he believes deserve attention when thinking about prostate health, immune function, and long-term vitality. He begins with nutrition and protein intake, including his approach to complete proteins and intermittent fasting, before turning to sleep and why he believes obsessing over eight hours or relying too heavily on sleep trackers can become counterproductive.Dr. Petteruti also discusses walking and exercise intensity, supplements including vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C, and copper, and why more antioxidants are not necessarily better. He finishes with perhaps the most unexpected strategy: making room for pleasure and enjoyment.Rather than constantly worrying about cancer or chasing every new intervention, Dr. Petteruti encourages building sustainable habits, focusing on vitality, and continuing to live fully.Timestamps:(00:00) Five ways to make your body less friendly to prostate cancer(00:34) Why your health strategy needs to stay simple(01:28) Aging, immune function and cancer risk(03:19) Protein, nutrition and supporting immune function(04:59) Does intermittent fasting matter for cancer?(06:38) Sleep: why eight hours isn't a magic number(07:47) Walking, exercise and prostate health(09:27) Why supplements come after the basics(10:03) The antioxidant paradox: can you have too much?(12:16) Vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C and copper(14:10) The unexpected fifth strategy: fun and pleasure(15:59) Living fully without being controlled by fearReferences:Anti-inflammatory Therapy with Canakinumab for Atherosclerotic Disease- https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1707914?referer=https://www.google.com/&Chapter 15 - Exercise, Immunity, and Illness-https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/chapter/edited-volume/pii/B9780128145937000153The immune hunger games: the effects of fasting on monocytes-https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10541887/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

What happens when a man diagnosed with prostate cancer decides not to undergo surgery or radiation?In this episode of the Intellectual Medicine podcast, Dr. Stephen Petteruti shares the true story of a 51-year-old patient diagnosed with biopsy-confirmed prostate cancer who chose a different path. After years of active surveillance, repeated MRIs, and multiple biopsies, the patient sought an alternative approach designed to monitor his cancer without additional biopsies while focusing on preserving his health and quality of life.Dr. Petteruti explains the rationale behind his non-biopsy monitoring protocol, which combines advanced imaging, lifestyle modification, nutritional strategies, and carefully selected repurposed medications. He discusses how the patient's MRI findings improved dramatically over time and why those results should be interpreted cautiously rather than viewed as evidence of a cure.Throughout the episode, Dr. Petteruti also explores the limitations of PSA testing, the role of PSMA PET imaging, and the importance of understanding all available treatment options before making life-changing decisions. Prostate cancer management should aim not only to control the disease but also to preserve vitality, function, and quality of life.Timestamps(00:00) Diagnosed with prostate cancer at age 51(01:15) Active surveillance and the burden of repeated biopsies(02:40) Introducing a non-biopsy monitoring approach(04:10) Building a protocol: repurposed drugs, lifestyle, and nutrition(05:45) MRI changes from PI-RADS 4 to PI-RADS 1(07:00) Why this is not evidence of a cure(07:45) PSMA PET scan: looking beyond the prostate(08:25) Why PSA alone doesn't tell the whole story(09:20) Preserving vitality while managing prostate cancer(10:25) Why patients deserve more than two treatment optionsEnjoy 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

Should patients always trust the experts, or should they ask more questions?This week on the Intellectual Medicine podcast, Dr. Stephen Petteruti reflects on the broader lessons that medicine can learn from the COVID-19 era. Using recent headlines surrounding Dr. Anthony Fauci as a starting point, he explores larger questions about medical authority, patient autonomy, and the role of healthy skepticism in healthcare.Dr. Petteruti discusses how uncertainty is an unavoidable part of medicine and argues that clinicians should acknowledge the limits of what they know while empowering patients to participate in important healthcare decisions. He also examines how institutional dogma, fear, and emotional pressure can influence decision-making, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing evidence from opinion.Drawing parallels between pandemic policies and other areas of medicine, including prostate cancer care, Dr. Petteruti explains how prioritizing a single outcome can sometimes compromise a patient’s overall health and quality of life. He concludes by encouraging informed patients to ask thoughtful questions, seek reliable evidence, and take an active role in decisions about their care.Timestamps(00:00) The cost of losing personal freedom during the pandemic(00:45) Who should make healthcare decisions?(02:25) Dogma, certainty, and the limits of medical expertise(03:00) Why patients should remain in control of their medical choices(05:00) The dangers of emotional coercion in healthcare(06:35) Healthy skepticism versus cynicism(08:35) Why medicine must treat the whole patient, not just one problem(10:30) What the COVID era can still teach modern medicine(11:50) A final message: ask good questions and verify what you're toldEnjoy 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