By Shawn Zimberg, MD, Medical Director, Advanced Radiation Centers of New York

Prostate cancer has recently taken center stage in both the headlines and pop culture. President Joe Biden’s late-stage prostate cancer diagnosis made news earlier this year, prompting concern and conversation nationwide. But not all prostate cancers are found late—nor are their stories always grim. On the latest season of And Just Like That…, the Sex and the City reboot, Harry Goldenblatt, a beloved character played by Evan Handler, is diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer. The storyline is both timely and important, reminding us that prostate cancer is not just a medical diagnosis—it’s an emotional one, too, and it affects not only patients but also their partners and families.

Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in men, with nearly 300,000 new cases expected in the U.S. this year. Most cases are detected through routine screening, especially with the use of the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test. PSA is a protein produced by prostate cells, and elevated levels can be an early sign of cancer—often before symptoms ever occur. While not perfect, PSA screening, coupled with MRI imaging and targeted biopsies when appropriate, has significantly improved our ability to catch prostate cancer early, when it is highly treatable.

When a diagnosis is made, patients often face a critical decision: surgery or radiation. For many years, prostatectomy—the surgical removal of the prostate—was the standard. But over the past two decades, radiation therapy has evolved dramatically. Modern non-invasive radiation technologies such as image-guided intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IG-IMRT), stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), and low-dose-rate brachytherapy offer excellent cancer control with comparable cure rates to surgery for early-stage disease—typically above 95%. Importantly, these techniques often reduce the risk of significant side effects such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction, which can be life-altering.

For couples, the emotional burden of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be just as profound as the medical journey. Even with an excellent prognosis, men may face fears about mortality, virility, and the future. Partners often shoulder their own distress, balancing support with concern over potential changes to intimacy and quality of life. The And Just Like That… storyline captures this dynamic well: Charlotte struggles with anxiety and uncertainty, even as Harry remains optimistic. This tension is real and common—many couples must renegotiate not only medical decisions but also their emotional connection.

Though the majority of men with early-stage prostate cancer will be cured, the psychological toll and the potential for side effects like erectile dysfunction can impact relationships in ways that are rarely discussed openly. It is not uncommon for patients to feel a loss of identity or confidence, while partners may experience grief over changes in intimacy or worry about becoming caregivers. These challenges, while difficult, are manageable with honest communication, support, and education.

So, what can couples do when faced with this diagnosis? First, seek out a multidisciplinary team that includes not only urologists and radiation oncologists but also counselors or support groups when needed. Second, understand that no two treatment plans are alike; options should be tailored to a patient’s cancer stage, lifestyle, and personal priorities. Third, talk—early and often. Emotional transparency can be just as healing as medical treatment.

At Advanced Radiation Centers, we believe in treating the whole patient, not just the cancer. That includes offering leading-edge radiation therapies designed to preserve quality of life—and recognizing the essential role that loved ones play in healing. Stories like Harry’s may be fictional, but the themes they highlight are all too real. Let’s use this cultural moment to normalize the conversation around prostate cancer, encourage early screening, and support the families who walk this journey together.