November marks Men's Health Awareness Month, and while 'Prostate Cancer Awareness' often dominates the headlines, Professor Dr Michel Jabbour, a Consultant Urologist at Emirates Hospitals in Dubai, sheds light on a more prevalent condition affecting nearly every man: Prostate enlargement, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). "Prostate enlargement is more common than prostate cancer. It is a non-cancerous condition that affects most men as they age. The prostate gland, a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra, enlarges, causing issues with urination such as frequent urination, nocturia, difficulty starting urination, weak urine stream, urgent need to urinate, incomplete bladder emptying, and dribbling urine. While prostate cancer is also common, especially in older men, it is less prevalent than BPH. It's crucial to recognize that both conditions may present similar symptoms, so it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper assessment."
Diagnosing Prostate Gland Enlargement / Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is crucial, as BPH, though not life-threatening, can significantly impact quality of life. Various diagnostic techniques are employed to identify the issue and recommend the most suitable treatment plan. Diagnosing BPH involves reviewing medical history and symptoms, conducting physical examinations, urine tests, blood tests, ultrasound for prostate size and residual urine measurements, and uroflowmetry to measure urine flow.
Dr Michel elaborates on the benefits of minimally invasive treatments for prostate enlargement. "Patients can benefit from advanced minimally invasive treatments available in Dubai for BPH. These techniques offer significant advantages over traditional surgical approaches, including shorter recovery times, less bleeding, fewer side effects, higher chances of preserving ejaculation, and shorter hospital stays, with many procedures being day-case." Examples of minimally invasive treatments include Green light laser therapy, Rezum/Water Vapor Therapy, ITind, and UroLift.
Dr Michel emphasizes, "If you experience symptoms of BPH, it is vital to consult your doctor promptly for diagnosis and treatment. There is no need to feel shy or afraid; modern treatment options are fast, effective, non-invasive, and can help you regain your quality of life."
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