Prostateis an important part of the male reproductive system. The prostate gland is located just below the bladder and wraps around the urethra. The main job of the prostate is to produce the fluid that transports sperm cells. However, problems such as prostate enlargement, infections and cancer can occur. Prostate diseases, which are especially common in older men, can negatively affect quality of life.
What is the Prostate and What Does it Do?
The prostate is a gland found in men and is responsible for producing the fluid that protects and carries sperm cells. The prostate gland plays an important role in men's sexual health and its enlargement can cause pressure on the urinary tract. This can lead to problems such as difficulty urinating and frequent urination. Prostate health should be checked regularly, especially in men over 40.
What are Prostate Diseases?
Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPH)
**Benign prostate enlargement (BPH) is a common health problem that occurs in men with age. The enlarged prostate narrows the urethra, causing symptoms such as difficulty urinating and frequent urination. This disease is benign and not related to cancer. However, it can negatively affect quality of life.
Prostatitis (Prostate Inflammation)
**Prostatitis** is inflammation of the prostate gland and is usually caused by bacterial infections. Prostatitis has symptoms such as pain when urinating, frequent urination and discomfort in the pelvic area. In the case of chronic prostatitis, these symptoms may persist for a long time.
Prostate Cancer
**Prostate cancer** is a serious disease, especially in older men. Prostate cancer is usually asymptomatic at an early stage. Therefore, regular prostate examinations and PSA tests are of great importance for early diagnosis. If left untreated, prostate cancer can have life-threatening consequences.
What are Prostate Treatment Methods?
Medication Therapy
Medicines used to treat **Prostate enlargement** and prostatitis can help shrink the prostate gland and improve urine flow. Alpha blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are the most commonly used drugs.
Surgical Intervention
Surgical intervention may be required in cases of prostate cancer or severe prostate enlargement. Surgeries such as **Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)** improve the patient's quality of life by removing prostate tissue.
Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy
Radiotherapy and chemotherapy also play an important role in the treatment of **Prostate cancer**. These treatments, which are applied to destroy cancer cells, prevent the disease from spreading and prolong the patient's survival.
Recommendations to Protect Prostate Health
It is very important to adopt a healthy lifestyle to maintain prostate health. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and avoiding smoking are the best ways to maintain prostate health. In addition, regular medical check-ups and PSA tests are critical for early diagnosis.