Benign Prostate Test in 10 Questions

Acıbadem Ataşehir Hospital Urology Specialist Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sofikerim made evaluations about prostate cancer. Benign prostate enlargement is seen in 60 out of every 2 men over the age of 1, and its incidence reaches 80% in people over the age of 80. Emphasizing that people with benign prostate enlargement may also have prostate cancer, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sofikerim said:

“Prostate cancer, which is the second most common type of cancer in men, does not have specific early signs, so it progresses insidiously and appears at an advanced stage. Benign prostatic enlargement, on the other hand, does not cause any symptoms in some people, but often has distinctive early symptoms. Therefore, it is necessary to perform examinations from both sides in order to reach the correct diagnosis. Since benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH-benign prostatic hyperplasia) usually manifests itself with changes in urination habits when everything is going well, it is of great benefit to consult a physician in case of a possible change.

The prostate gland, an organ located under the urinary bladder and surrounding the urinary canal in men, begins to grow from the age of 45. Urology Specialist Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sofikerim stated that the increase in both the size and weight of the prostate gland, which is normally 25-30 grams in size, is called 'benign prostate enlargement' and emphasized that it is important to act early in diagnosis and treatment.

Stating that the disease occurs due to the decrease in the level of the male hormone testosterone with advancing age and the increase in prostate tissue, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sofikerim said that the genetic factor is also important, therefore, those with a first-degree relative with benign prostate enlargement are at higher risk.

“Benign Prostate Test in 10 Questions”

Urology Specialist Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sofikerim listed the most common symptoms of benign prostate enlargement and said, "The presence of at least one of these symptoms is sufficient for the investigation of benign prostatic enlargement."

1. When everything was going well, did your urination habits suddenly change?
2. Do you experience a significant and persistent increase in your daily urination?
3. Do you have an increase in the number of times you wake up to urinate at night?
4. Do you have burning and pain problem while urinating?
5. Have you ever seen blood in your urine?
6. Is there a decrease in urine flow rate and thickness?
7. Do you think there is an interruption in the flow of urine?
8. Do you feel like you are not able to urinate properly even though you are urinating?
9. Do you leak urine drops when you feel the urge to urinate?
10. Do you have trouble starting urination?

“Treatment varies according to the patient!”

Stating that the treatment modality in benign prostate enlargement may vary according to the patient, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sofikerim said that sometimes only follow-up or drug therapy can be sufficient, and in some clinical situations, surgery is inevitable.

Stating that the Thulium Laser (ThuFLEP) method has come to the fore in recent years with its properties that do not damage the nerves, shorten the hospital stay, reduce side effects and accelerate the recovery period, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sofikerim said:

“Although the ThuFLEP method is performed closed, the entire prostate is removed with a method similar to open prostate surgery. Spinal anesthesia is sufficient during the operation. The patient does not experience a burning sensation while urinating, and does not damage the nerves that regulate sexual functions. There is no loss of sexual function after the surgery and the patient can be discharged the day after the surgery. In a day or two, the patient returns to normal life after the catheter is removed.”