Enlarged Prostate - Tips from a Urologist on Men's Health
9 Feb 2023
Men’s health is an often underestimated topic by the male themselves, sometimes even a taboo topic. Many men only get to a doctor’s office when a problem appears, and even in such cases, they postpone. And in fact, a preventive visit to a specialist reduces the risk of unwanted problems, some of which could be very serious. Men’s health issues mainly concern the condition of the prostate gland, with the two significant diseases being prostate enlargement and prostate cancer. We met with Dr. Boris Petkov, a urologist who shared the problems of the prostate gland, its symptoms, and recommendations for its prevention, which are of great importance for men’s health.
What is a Prostate?
Dr. Petkov explained that the prostate is a gland with muscle cells. It is an important part of the male reproductive system, excretes a secretion that facilitates the movement of spermatozoa and provides them with valuable nutrients. It is rich in nerve endings, which makes it more sensitive and erogenous.
What Exactly is an Enlarged Prostate Gland?
After about 35-40 years of age, the gland gradually begins to grow under the influence of the male hormone testosterone. Dr. Petkov added that when this happens, difficulty while urinating may occur. The incidence of this problem in men between 60-70 years old is over 50%, and in men over 70-80 years old, it reaches 90%.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer, unfortunately, is one of the most common forms of cancer among men. Men over 50 and those over 45 years of age with a family predisposition are at the most significant risk of developing the disease. When diagnosed at an early stage, the outcome for patients is generally favorable.
What Recommendations Should we Follow for a Healthy Prostate?
The specialist advised adherence to a healthy diet, consumption of whole grains, legumes, tomatoes, garlic, mushrooms, fruits, and vegetables, reduction of fast carbohydrates, and maintaining a healthy BMI. Also, Dr. Petkov advised men after 40 to visit a urologist once a year, and if there is a family burden, visitations have to begin at an early age.
How can Digital Technologies Help?
Preventive examinations are extremely important, and they shouldn’t be forgotten about in today’s busy and dynamic life we currently have. In such moments, your indispensable helper to remind you that it is time for your preventive examination with a urologist or other specialist is the Medrec:M digital health application. It allows you to book appointments remotely with medical professionals, set alarms for upcoming consultations, and store laboratory tests and other health documents. Download the app now completely free.