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Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Following skin cancer, prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in American men. According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. In fact, 248,530 new cases of prostate cancer are estimated to be diagnosed in 2021 alone. Dr. Scot Ackerman joined WJXT yesterday morning to discuss the risk factors for someone who may be at risk of prostate cancer, as well as the screening methods and treatment options that are available.

Although risk factors can increase a person’s chance of getting cancer, having one or more risk factors does not mean you will get cancer. It is important to be aware of the following risk factors in order to remain as healthy as possible.

Risk Factors:

  • Age: Rare in men that are younger than 40, but chance of diagnosis rises rapidly after age 50 and is most common after age 65.
  • Race: Most common in African-American men and Caribbean men of African ancestry. When prostate cancer develops in these men, it typically occurs earlier in age.
  • Geography: Most common in North America, northwestern Europe, Australia, and Caribbean islands. This could be because of more extensive testing in developed countries, as well as lifestyle differences (diet, etc.).
  • Family History: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles a man’s risk. When several relatives have been diagnosed, especially at a young age, risk also increases.
  • Genetic mutations: BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, and Lynch syndrome increase risk.

Symptoms: Prostate cancer in its early stages does not normally cause symptoms, however symptoms can show up in more advanced stages. This is why regular screening and diagnostic testing is so important.

  • Problems urinating- slow/weak stream or constant urination at night
  • Blood in the urine or semen
  • Erectile dysfunction or ED
  • Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet, loss of bladder/bowel control

Screening and Diagnosis:

  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test:
    • PSA < 4, man is very likely to not have prostate cancer
    • PSA level between 4 and 10, man has a 25% chance of prostate cancer
    • PSA > 10, man’s chance of prostate cancer is over 50%
    • There is no set cut off point to determine if a man has prostate cancer, because there are many factors that can also increase PSA levels including:
      • Enlarged prostate, age, recent ejaculation, riding a bike, certain urologic procedures (biopsies), certain medicines (testosterone)
    • There are also factors that can lower PSA levels, even if a man does have prostate cancer, including:
      • 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, herbal mixtures, and long term use of certain medications such as aspirin
  • Digital Rectal Exam: Prostate cancers often originate in the back part of the prostate gland, and can sometimes be felt during a rectal exam.
  • Prostate Biopsy: Most commonly performed after an initial PSA test comes back as high.

Treatments: It is important to consider what stage the cancer is when deciding course of treatment. Age, overall health, life expectancy and risk of reoccurrence after treatment can also be considered.

  • Observation- Often considered for Stage 1.  These cancers are small, grow slowly, and rarely cause symptoms. Some men with Stage 2 prostate cancer can also be placed under surveillance and receive regular screening.
  • Surgery- Stage 4 prostate cancers can often not be cured, but can be treated with surgery which relieves symptoms such as bleeding and urinary obstruction.
  • Hormone therapy- Considered for Stage 2 and 3.
  • Radiation therapy- Considered for Stage 1 with men who are young and healthy, and know they may need to be treated again later on. Men with Stage 2 and 3 prostate cancer can also be treated with radiation therapy.
  • Chemotherapy- Commonly considered with Stage 4, in addition to other treatment methods such as radiation therapy.

Survivorship:

While most prostate cancers can be removed or destroyed with treatment, it is very important to continue screening and attend doctors appointments. Most physicians recommend PSA tests after treatment every 6 months for the first 5 years and then 1 time per year after the first 5 years.

To view the full interview with Dr. Scot Ackerman and WJXT, click here

To learn more about the treatment options offered for Prostate Cancer at Ackerman Cancer Center, click here

Sources:

Prostate Cancer | Prostate Cancer Information and Overview

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Arlean Marcellus, BS

Physician Liaison

Arlean Marcellus joined Ackerman Cancer Center in March 2023 and leads physician outreach. She builds and strengthens meaningful partnerships with referring physicians, healthcare facilities, and medical groups, driving growth in patient referrals. Arlean holds a degree in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health from the University of North Florida. Beyond her work, she volunteers with Feeding Northeast Florida. In her free time, Arlean enjoys running, roller skating, and spending time with her family.
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Shelby Goodman, MSW

Oncology Social Worker

Shelby Goodman joined the Ackerman Cancer Center team in January 2023 as the oncology social worker. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of North Florida and went on to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). With over five years of experience supporting individuals and families in the social work field, her practice focuses on psychosocial support, care coordination, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for patients and their loved ones. Shelby is a member of the Florida Society of Oncology Social Workers (FSOSW). In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and dog.
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Kali Molter, MBA

Community Relations Specialist

Kali Molter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in August 2024 and supports community outreach, marketing initiatives, and engagement efforts. She holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing from the University of North Florida. A Jacksonville native and Bishop Kenny alum, Kali is passionate about contributing to and strengthening the local community. She brings experience in hospitality and event management and serves on the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX Professional Development and Community Engagement committees. Outside of work, Kali enjoys living at the beach, running and yoga, traveling, and is a lifelong Jacksonville Jaguars fan.

Ceilidgh O'Brien, BS

Patient Relations Manager

Ceilidgh O’Brien is the patient relations manager at Ackerman Cancer Center, where she leads the patient relations team and helps ensure every patient experience is organized, supportive, and welcoming. She oversees scheduling and communications and is passionate about creating efficient processes that help patients and staff feel informed, supported, and cared for. Ceilidgh earned a Bachelor of Science in health sciences from the University of South Florida in 2024 and values building strong, compassionate connections with both patients and colleagues. A Boston native, Ceilidgh traded snow for sunshine and now spends her free time running with friends and supporting the Jacksonville Humane Society.
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Tiffany Vaughn, RT (R)(T)

Manager, Radiation Therapy & Imaging

Tiffany Vaughn brings extensive experience and steady leadership to Ackerman Cancer Center, with 24 years of service to the practice. For the past 15 years, she has served in leadership roles, overseeing both radiation therapy and imaging departments with a focus on quality care, collaboration, and operational excellence. Tiffany is a proud member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. She earned her technologist degree from St. Vincent's Medical Center and completed radiation therapy training from Washburn University. Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing in or around the water, and taking on hands-on projects around her home.
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Vivienne Bennett, MS, RT(R)(M)​

Clinic Manager

Vivienne Bennett joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2013 as a mammography technologist and was promoted in 2021 to oncology clinic manager, overseeing clinical operations across all four locations. She provides leadership for daily clinic operations, supports multidisciplinary oncology teams, ensures regulatory and accreditation compliance, and implements operational strategies to improve quality, safety, and patient experience. Vivienne holds a master’s degree in medical radiation sciences from the University of Sydney in Australia and is a member of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Outside of work, she enjoys watching sports, walking, and spending time with friends and family.
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Timothy Scott, RTR, RTT, CMD

Manager, Dosimetry, Facilities, & Research

Tim Scott joined Ackerman Cancer Center in 2003 and brings nearly 40 years of experience in radiation oncology and medical dosimetry operations. He oversees medical dosimetry, facilities, special projects, and research and has played a key role in nearly every building project and major technology launch at the center. Tim is passionate about innovation and the development, construction, and commissioning of advanced treatment technologies, including proton therapy. Beyond his professional work, Tim serves as a worship pastor and is a brass musician. In his free time, he enjoys restoring classic cars and spending time on the lake.
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Greg Sarkisov, BS

Director of Information Technology

Greg Sarkisov joined Ackerman Cancer Center in September 2019 and oversees all facets of information technology and information security within the organization. Greg has over twenty years of experience in information technology and security. With over six of those years in our practice, he has led initiatives to strengthen our core security and expand the use of various technologies to help aid our staff in providing effective and efficient patient care. Greg holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information systems security from ITT Technical Institute. Outside of work, he stays active in the community and is a member of the IT Council with the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. In his free time, Greg enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
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Jennifer Zelaya, MHA

Director of Human Resources

Jenny Zelaya is the director of human resources at Ackerman Cancer Center and Ackerman Urology, where she oversees all HR functions and fosters a positive, inclusive workplace culture. She holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Miami and brings extensive experience in talent management, employee engagement, and regulatory compliance. Fluent in Spanish, Jennifer enjoys staying active outside of work, playing pickleball, golfing with friends and family, and spending time with her golden retriever, Lenny.
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Amy Mousa, CPA

Director of Finance and Accounting

Amy Mousa joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2021 and serves as the director of finance and accounting. In her role, she oversees financial operations and supports the organization’s strategic and operational goals. Amy holds a Florida CPA license and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from the University of North Florida. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.
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Nelson Miksys, PhD, MCCPM

Chief Medical Physicist

Nelson Miksys joined Ackerman Cancer Center in October 2019. As chief medical physicist, Nelson manages the medical physics department, which is responsible for
quality assurance of all patient treatment plans, calibration of the radiation therapy equipment, maintenance of the radiation safety program, integration of new technology
into the clinic, and providing clinical technical support across all aspects of the cancer center. Nelson has over ten years of experience as a medical physicist and comes to Ackerman Cancer Center from The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre (Ottawa, Canada). Nelson has a PhD in medical physics from Carleton University (Ottawa, Canada) and a
master’s degree in medical and health physics from McMaster University (Hamilton,
Canada). Outside of work, Nelson is actively involved in his children’s sports activities and community social events and is passionate about maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular physical fitness and outdoor activities.

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Robert Tokarz, MS, DABR

Vice President, Technical Services

Rob Tokarz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in January 2014 and oversees the Physics, Dosimetry, Therapy, Imaging, IT, and Transcription departments. He holds a Bachelor of Science in physics from Notre Dame and a Master of Science in medical physics from Columbia University. Rob has worked in the field of medical physics for 25 years and has worked previously at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Prior to his career in medical physics, Rob was an officer in the United States Navy, where he attained the rank of lieutenant commander. As a naval aviator, he flew Seahawk
helicopters out of Naval Station Mayport and was stationed overseas in Bahrain.

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Gigi Ackerman Schwartz, MBA

Vice President, Operations

Gigi Ackerman Schwartz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2020 and leads strategic planning initiatives across all departments, directs all aspects of revenue cycle management, and works to develop and maintain relationships with community partners. Gigi holds an MBA from Tulane University. A Jacksonville native, she is involved in several local charitable and civic organizations. She serves as chair of the Art in Public Places Committee for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, is a member of the National Young Leadership Cabinet, and is a trustee of the Jewish Community Alliance and Jacksonville Jewish Center. In her free time, Gigi enjoys playing mahjong, exploring new hobbies with friends, and spending time with her husband and two-year-old daughter.

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Baylee Richter, BS

Community Relations Manager

Baylee Richter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2024 and oversees digital campaigns, brand strategy, and community outreach and engagement. With more than eight years of experience in events and marketing, she has led initiatives that strengthen patient engagement, community awareness, and referral growth. Baylee holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Outside of work, she stays actively involved in the community through her service on the board of the American Lung Association. She also supports the American Cancer Society’s Cowford Ball as a member of the children’s art project committee and contributes to the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX program, serving on two committees. In her free time, Baylee enjoys spending time with her Australian Shepherd, Cooper, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.