Ascension St. Vincent's St. Johns County welcomes 55+ community for urology education

Ascension St. Vincent's St. Johns County welcomed 55+ community members for a "lunch and learn" session focused on urology and treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly know as an enlarged prostate, a condition affecting many men as they age.

Urologist Dr. C. Shawn West discussed the causes and symptoms of BPH and learned about the latest treatment options, including lifestyle changes, medications, and minimally invasive procedures to improve quality of life. This included Aquablation, a new minimally invasive procedure at the hospital that uses ultrasound-guided, robotic-assisted waterjet technology, allowing surgeons to create a personalized treatment plan that precisely targets problematic tissue while preserving healthy anatomy.

The event created an open, supportive environment where participants could ask questions, discuss concerns, and better understand when to seek care.

"These gatherings give people in our community the opportunity to better understand their health and ask questions in a comfortable setting, all while building relationships with the caregivers who are here to support them," said Sean McAfee, Interim President & CEO for Ascension St. Vincent's St. Johns County. "As people age, access to clear, practical health information becomes even more vital. We're committed to creating spaces that empower our community to stay informed and connected."

Hospital leaders say they plan to continue offering educational sessions on a variety of health topics, reinforcing their commitment to preventive care and community wellness.