Francis A. Fraser recently opened a practice in Leesville to serve patients with urological needs.
Fraser can provide treatment concerning kidney stones, prostate problems, urological cancers, erectile dysfunction, vasectomies, incontinence and urinary tract infections. He is especially concerned with helping patients become more aware of prostate cancer, he said.
"Most men over 50 should be examined regularly," Fraser said, especially if they have a family history of prostate cancer. Those with African descent also have a higher incidence of prostate cancer.
The exam should include a Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA) and a rectal exam, he said. The PSA is a blood test that measures antigens in the blood. A high level of antigens could indicate the need for a more invasive exam such as an ultrasound or biopsy.
Treatment for prostate cancer can be one of three methods: conventional radiation, laproscopic or robotic, Fraser said.
"Leesville, like most small towns, does not offer robotic prostatectomy," he added, though some forms of laproscopic or radical treatment are available.
The symptoms of prostate cancer include a change in urinary habits, pelvic pain, blood in the urine and a change in sexual habits, Fraser said.
Symptoms can persist, and they can also be very gradual so it's possible to miss their onset, he added. Prostate cancer is usually slow-growing, though it can become more aggressive in men between the ages of 40 and 65. Undetected, the cancer can spread, most commonly to lymph nodes and then to the bones.
A man in his forties who is diagnosed early with prostate cancer can have the prostate removed and go on to live a normal life, Fraser said, pointing to high profile figures such as Colin Powell and Robert Dole, both of whom were diagnosed with prostate cancer and after treatment went on to live active lives.
"Urology is the best kept secret in medicine," Fraser said, explaining that the choice to specialize in that field has provided him with the opportunity to work in pediatrics, radiology, surgery and medicine for both female and male patients.
After practicing in West Virginia for 18 years, Fraser and his wife Tracy who is from St. James Parish and a nurse for Red Cross, moved to Louisiana to get closer to family. Fraser also received his training at Tulane.
Originally from Guyana, which is on the northeastern coast of South America, Fraser came to the United States looking for the American dream, he said. Eventually all of his family joined him, including six brothers and two sisters who are now scattered along the east coast. Their father lives in New York.
Fraser's practice is located at 1201 Fertitta Blvd. Joining him in the new practice are Tina Disotell, office manager, Kim Martin, receptionist, and Libby Perkins, medical assistant.
Leesville, La. —
