Breaking the silence on benign prostatic hyperplasiaBreaking the silence on benign prostatic hyperplasia

Let’s talk about something that affects millions of us but often goes unspoken: enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It's time to break the silence, dispel the stigma, and take charge of our health. Here’s why.

Your body matters

As we hit our 30s and beyond, our priorities shift. Quality of life becomes paramount, yet many of us remain hesitant to seek medical advice. Why? Fear of the unknown plays a significant role. We fear bad news about our health, and we often fall prey to the belief that we’re invincible, and that health issues only plague the older generation. But the truth is, they can strike at any age.

Symptoms of BPH can be subtle at first – frequent bathroom visits, struggling to urinate – but they can escalate over time. By the age of 25, the prostate begins its natural growth, and by our 50s and 60s, up to 90% of us will experience BPH. If you have a family history or certain medical conditions, your risk may be even higher. Early action is key, yet many of us delay seeking help due to embarrassment, cost concerns, or simply being too busy.

Breaking barriers and overcoming obstacles to care

The reluctance to seek medical care is not just about inconvenience – it is deeply ingrained in societal norms. Generations of men have been conditioned to believe that seeking help is a sign of weakness. Masculine norms perpetuate this stigma, making it harder for us to prioritise our health.

But here’s the truth: prioritising our health is the epitome of strength. Regular check-ups, including visits to a primary care physician and, if necessary, a urologist, are vital. Don’t let fear or pride stand in the way of your well-being.

Navigating the maze of treatment options for BPH

So, what can we do about BPH? The good news is, there are options. From conservative approaches like watchful waiting to medications and surgeries, the choice depends on various factors, including the size of the prostate, age, lifestyle, and overall health.

One innovative solution gaining attention is iTind (Temporary Implanted Nitinol Device) treatment. This minimally invasive outpatient procedure offers rapid, effective relief without the need for daily pills or major surgery. Over a span of five to seven days, the iTind device gently reshapes the prostate, widening the urinary passage without leaving a permanent implant. The procedure is straightforward, preserves sexual and urinary function, and minimises the risk of long-term complications.

Low-carbon footprint medical devices for a sustainable future

The iTind procedure is not only an innovative treatment for BPH but also a leader in sustainability. Key findings indicate that iTind has the lowest carbon footprint among similar devices, using the least amount of raw materials. This is crucial as the carbon footprint (CF) is becoming an increasingly important factor in healthcare due to the growing concern over global warming. The rise in disposable minimally invasive surgical devices exacerbates environmental impact, making low-CF options like iTind even more vital.

In the medical device industry, low-CF options like iTind are increasingly important as they reduce the environmental burden of healthcare practices. With the healthcare sector contributing significantly to global carbon emissions, the adoption of devices with minimal CF is essential for achieving sustainability goals. iTind's efficient use of materials and its minimal environmental impact make it a responsible choice for both patients and healthcare providers who are conscious of their ecological footprint.

Embracing change and shifting the narrative

It’s time to rewrite the narrative surrounding men’s health. Let’s embrace a culture where seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Let’s prioritise our well-being and encourage one another to do the same. Enlarged prostate may be common, but it doesn’t have to define us. With awareness, education, and access to innovative treatments, we can reclaim control of our health and live life to the fullest.

Remember, your body matters. Don’t wait until symptoms escalate – take charge of your health today. Break the silence, seek help when needed, and together, let’s redefine what it means to be men who prioritise their well-being.

Dr. Salam Al Hasani is a Consultant Urological Surgeon at Mediclinic Welcare and an expert in men’s health.