On the occasion of European Prostate Health Day, Quirónsalud Vitoria Hospital has highlighted the importance of prevention and regular check-ups to maintain good prostate health, a fundamental aspect of men’s quality of life, especially from the age of 45.
Dr. Josep Campá, a urologist at the hospital, noted that the first warning signs often manifest as urinary changes, such as a decrease in urinary flow, interruptions in the stream, or the need to strain to start urination. The frequent need to get up during the night to urinate is also considered a warning sign.
The prostate, a gland that undergoes changes due to aging and hormonal factors, presents an increase in problems as age advances. From around 40 or 45 years of age, hormonal variations can promote the growth of the prostate’s transitional zone, resulting in some men experiencing more noticeable symptoms, while others may have a slower growth rate.
Among the most common conditions are infections, which are more frequent in younger men, and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the most common issue, characterized by non-malignant growth that can cause urinary difficulties. Prostate cancer, being the most common tumor in men, underscores the importance of early detection, which is crucial for achieving better prognoses.
These health problems not only impact physical condition, but they also affect the daily well-being and social life of those who suffer from them. For this reason, regular check-ups are essential for detecting changes in a timely manner. Prostate evaluation includes clinical interviews, quality of life questionnaires, physical examinations, and painless tests such as ultrasounds and flowmetry. Although more specific studies may be required in some cases, most check-ups are painless.
Dr. Campá indicated that many men avoid visiting the urologist due to fear or embarrassment, but he stressed that the primary goal is to improve quality of life. Check-ups are simple and can prevent complications. Early diagnosis of prostate cancer provides significant therapeutic advantages. On this European Prostate Health Day, Quirónsalud Vitoria Hospital encourages all men, especially those over 45, to overcome their fears, attend their check-ups, and make prevention their best tool for taking care of their health.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
