Urology Specialist Prof. Dr. Ramazan Gökhan Atış stated that benign prostate enlargement is a common health problem in men that can occur with age. Prof. Dr. He said that complaints such as shortness of breath, frequent urination, intermittent urination, decreased urine flow and the feeling of incomplete ejaculation are important symptoms of the disease. He stated that regular urology checks are essential, especially in men over the age of 50, as the growth in the prostate tissue becomes evident.
‘EARLY DIAGNOSIS MAY BE POSSIBLE’
Prof. stated that in case of genetic predisposition, prostate checks should be carried out until the age of 45. Dr. Atış said, “If there is a history of prostate cancer in first-degree relatives such as father or uncle, this risk increases. We evaluate the situation with the physical examination and laboratory tests we perform on our patients. Early diagnosis is possible with a special blood test called PSA and urine tests. PSA test is of great importance in the early diagnosis of prostate cancer. Not every PSA elevation means malignant prostate cancer. However, high PSA levels indicate that the prostate needs to be examined in more detail. “In this case, we can resort to methods such as additional imaging and biopsy,” he said.
‘THE RATE OF RECURRENCE IS LOW WITH THE CORRECT TREATMENT’
Prof. stated that the method to be applied in the treatment of prostate enlargement is determined depending on the size of the prostate and the general health condition of the patient. Dr. Atış said, “For prostate enlargements between 30 and 80 grams, we prefer closed TUR surgery or the Rezum technique, known as the vaporization method. For prostates weighing over 80 grams, laser methods that reduce the amount of bleeding are our primary choice.
A different treatment plan is applied for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. When a malignant growth is detected, the prostate must be completely removed along with the surrounding tissues. After surgery, patients are subjected to regular oncological follow-up. “However, with the correct treatment, recurrence rates are quite low even in these patients.”
‘LIFE STYLE AND NUTRITION SUPPORTS’
Finally, Prof. made nutritional recommendations to reduce the risk of prostate enlargement. Dr. Atış said, “Foods such as pumpkin seeds and fried tomatoes can support the process, but it is not possible to completely prevent prostate enlargement due to hormonal changes. “After a successful surgical procedure, the patients we treat generally do not have any problems for 20 years,” he said.
DHA