Srinagar | : Every year the month of September is observed as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to highlight the importance of prostate health and early detection. Commemorating the annual prostate health month Dr Shabir Ahmad Mir, Consultant Urologist of IBN SINA Hospital, Srinagar today informed that there has been a sharp increase in cases related to prostate in men in India. From 9.55 million in 2000 it has gone to 18.2 million in 2019 which roughly translates to an alarming change of 90.9%.” He advises Indian men above 50 years to undergo prostate check-ups once a year.
“Symptoms of BPH are frequently observed among males over the age of 50 years. An enlarged prostate causes obstruction of the urethra, leading to urinary problems that can severely affect quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment can provide effective relief,” says Dr Shabir Ahmad Mir, Consultant Urologist, IBN SINA Hospital, Srinagar
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland in the male reproductive system that surrounds the urethra, the tube carrying urine from the bladder. As the gland enlarges, symptoms like frequent urination, weak flow, or incomplete emptying appear. Experts warn that BPH is becoming as common as diabetes or heart disease. Waking more than twice a night to urinate after the age of 50 may signal prostate enlargement.
“If left untreated, BPH can cause recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or even chronic kidney disease,” cautions the doctor.
Key diagnostic tools include clinical evaluation, ultrasonography, uroflometry and Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test. An elevated PSA level may indicate prostate cancer, but can also be elevated in men with BPH
Today, enlarged prostate can be managed effectively. Many men improve with lifestyle changes and medicines which can relax or shrink the prostate. Surgery to remove the obstructing prostate tissue may be necessary in cases of significant refractory symptoms , refractory acute urinary retention, recurrent UTI, recurrent gross hematuria , bladder stones, renal insufficiency/hydronephrosis or refractory urinary incontinence (all due to BHP).
