Kericho Medical Professional Advocates for Regular Prostate Checkups to Prevent Kidney Issues

KERICHO, Kenya — A medical expert in Kericho has emphasized the importance of regular prostate gland check-ups for elderly men to prevent complications such as bladder, urinary tract, and kidney dysfunction. This proactive health measure is aimed at avoiding the severe outcomes of late diagnosis.

According to Kenya News Agency, a resident surgeon at AIC Litein Kericho Annex Clinic, men aged 50 and above should be vigilant about the symptoms of prostate enlargement, known medically as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). In an interview with KNA, Dr. Blasto noted that BPH could lead to urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and in severe cases, kidney failure. “The older a man becomes, the higher the probability your prostate will become bigger,” he stated, explaining the natural enlargement of the prostate with age which can complicate urination.

Dr. Blasto highlighted the common symptoms of BPH, including frequent nocturnal urination, difficulty in controlling bladder functions such as delaying or stopping urination, inability to completely empty the bladder, a weak urine stream, or dribbling at the end of urination, and in some instances, a complete inability to urinate.

The surgeon also pointed out risk factors for developing an enlarged prostate, which include family history, age, obesity, cardiovascular problems, type 2 diabetes, and erectile dysfunction. He reported that the hospital manages around 100 patients monthly from Kericho and Bomet counties with this condition, indicating a high prevalence in these areas.

Treatment options mentioned by Dr. Blasto include medications that relax the muscles around the prostate and bladder, surgery, and lifestyle changes such as reducing fluid intake before bedtime. Transurethral methods, which involve inserting a thin tube through the urethra, are also used to relieve symptoms.

Dr. Blasto stressed the importance of early diagnosis and regular monitoring of the prostate size to mitigate the effects of BPH and reduce the risk of serious complications like kidney failure. He advised that any change in urinary habits should be reported promptly to a healthcare provider to facilitate early treatment and prevent progression to more severe conditions.