Advanced Prostate Cancer Detection Now Available in Sault Ste. Marie

James Howard, M.D.

Men in the eastern Upper Peninsula now have access to a powerful new tool in the fight against prostate cancer, as MyMichigan Medical Center Sault begins offering PSMA PET scans - an advanced imaging technology that can detect the disease with greater precision.

PSMA, or prostate-specific membrane antigen, is a protein found in high levels on prostate cancer cells, including those that have spread to other areas of the body such as lymph nodes or bones. During the scan, a specialized tracer is administered through an IV and binds to PSMA, helping highlight cancerous cells. This technology can identify prostate cancer even when PSA levels are low and tumors are too small to be seen with conventional imaging.

“This technology gives us a powerful tool to detect prostate cancer earlier and more precisely,” said James Howard, M.D., board certified urologist at MyMichigan Medical Center Sault. “Better imaging helps us make more informed treatment decisions and personalize care for each patient.”

According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. In 2026, an estimated 333,830 new cases will be diagnosed and about 36,000 deaths related to prostate cancer. In recent years, the death rate from prostate cancer has risen, likely to more cases of prostate cancer being found in advanced stages. This disturbing trend makes the development of PSMA PET imaging, both important and timely.

A PSMA PET scan maybe be recommended after an initial prostate cancer diagnosis, during cancer staging or if it’s been identified that the cancer is at risk of spreading to other parts of the body (metastasizing) before starting prostate cancer treatment.

“By bringing this technology to Sault Ste. Marie means our patients no longer have to travel for this advanced diagnostic tool,” added Dr. Howard. “Earlier and more precise detection means we can intervene more effectively, which can translate into better outcomes for our patients.”

Those interested in more information on the MyMichigan’s comprehensive cancer care program, visit www.mymichigan.org/cancer.