Introduction
In the latest season of “And Just Like That…”, a storyline unfolds that brings attention to a critical health issue: prostate cancer. Harry Goldenblatt, portrayed by Evan Handler, experiences a health scare that leads to a prostate cancer diagnosis. This plot development has sparked discussions about the realism of the portrayal and the broader implications for prostate cancer awareness.
Harry’s Health Scare
In the June 26 episode, Harry Goldenblatt, Charlotte’s husband, reveals his prostate cancer diagnosis after experiencing some unusual symptoms. During a walk with Charlotte, he shares the news, reassuring her that the cancer was caught early. Despite Charlotte’s initial panic, Harry remains optimistic about his prognosis.
Expert Opinions on the Plotline
Dr. Phillip Koo, chief medical officer at the Prostate Cancer Foundation, expresses enthusiasm for the storyline, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about prostate cancer. He notes that men often avoid discussing health issues related to masculinity, making this storyline a valuable conversation starter.
However, Dr. Julia Willingham, a urologist at Texas Oncology, points out that the show’s depiction takes creative liberties. Most early-stage prostate cancers are asymptomatic, earning the disease the nickname “silent killer.” Typically, prostate cancer is detected through routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, not through symptoms like those Harry experiences.
Understanding Prostate Cancer Symptoms
Harry’s symptoms, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, are not typical indicators of early-stage prostate cancer. Dr. Mark Pomerantz from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute explains that such symptoms usually appear when the disease is advanced. Before the PSA test became a diagnostic tool, men often discovered prostate cancer due to urinary retention or when the cancer had spread to other parts of the body, causing symptoms like severe back pain.
The Reality of Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
In reality, a high PSA level prompts further testing, such as biopsies and scans, to confirm a prostate cancer diagnosis. Dr. Willingham emphasizes that many men feel healthy and symptom-free when diagnosed, underscoring the importance of regular screenings.
If Harry were a real patient, his symptoms might suggest advanced disease, although it’s possible for them to occur in localized cases. The show’s choice to highlight these symptoms likely aims to dramatize the storyline, even though they are more commonly side effects of prostate cancer treatment rather than initial symptoms.
Treatment and Side Effects
Prostate cancer treatment often involves surgery to remove the prostate, which can lead to side effects like urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Dr. Pomerantz explains that the surgery involves removing part of the urethra, which can affect urinary control. Additionally, nerves responsible for bladder control may be damaged during surgery, leading to the side effects depicted in the show.
Emotional Impact and Awareness
Charlotte’s emotional response to Harry’s diagnosis reflects a common reaction to cancer news. Dr. Koo notes that the word “cancer” often triggers fears about life expectancy and financial stability. For men like Harry, who have young children, concerns about supporting their family can be overwhelming.
Experts hope that Harry’s storyline will encourage more men to undergo prostate cancer screenings. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt from Orlando Health emphasizes that prostate cancer is common and treatable, especially when detected early. Regular screenings can lead to better health outcomes.
Encouraging Proactive Health Measures
Dr. Willingham has observed an increase in men seeking proactive screenings, which she attributes to greater awareness and understanding. She encourages men to address any urinary or sexual symptoms with their doctors, as these issues are manageable and should not be endured in silence.
Conclusion
While the prostate cancer storyline in “And Just Like That…” may take creative liberties, it serves an important purpose by raising awareness about a disease that affects many men. By encouraging conversations and screenings, the show contributes to a broader understanding of prostate cancer and the importance of early detection.
© 2025 TIME USA, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information.
🔗 **Fuente:** https://time.com/7297618/and-just-like-that-prostate-cancer/