Despite knowing how prevalent prostate cancer is among men his age, he was shocked when he himself was diagnosed with the very disease he had dedicated his life to fighting—in others.

As a practicing urologist, Dr. Seigel kept up to date on the latest innovations, incorporating new treatment approaches aimed at improving outcomes for men undergoing hormone and radiation therapy. SpaceOAR Hydrogel, a device that can minimize the risk of side effects from radiation therapy, including rectal pain, diarrhea, urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, is one such approach. The absorbable hydrogel creates a temporary space between the prostate and the rectum, protecting the rectum from radiation exposure during prostate radiation therapy.

“I’ve been treating men with prostate cancer for over 30 years, but I never dreamed I would be diagnosed with the disease,” said Dr. Sanford Siegel, founder of one of the largest urology practices in the United States.

He didn’t experience any side effects from his radiation treatment, and today his PSA levels are undetectable. Feeling even more empowered, Dr. Siegel continues his advocacy in the Baltimore community, educating men about the importance of regular screenings. He has also helped raise more than $4 million through the annual ZERO Prostate Run and Walk, a community event he founded that has extended to 42 cities across the country.

Along with his clinical team, Dr. Seigel developed a treatment plan that was right for him, and it included SpaceOAR Hydrogel. “If I was going to have radiation, I was going to have SpaceOAR,” said Dr. Siegel.