“Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which your prostate grows considerably in size. Your prostate is a gland that rests below your bladder and in front of your rectum. It’s about the size of a walnut, and it surrounds part of your urethra.

Your urethra is a tube that carries urine (pee) and sperm (ejaculate) out of your body.

If your prostate grows in size, it can prevent pee and ejaculate from passing through your urethra.”

Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9100-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia)

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy (BPH):

What is this?  Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a health issue that becomes more common with age. It’s also called an enlarged prostate. The prostate is a small gland that helps make semen. It’s found just below the bladder. And it often gets bigger as you get older.

Sexual health is a major overall health marker for men — 1 in 4 men will experience some form of sexual health concern by age 65.

Erectile dysfunction and lower testosterone are linked to larger health risks, including heart disease, high blood pressure-HBP, diabetes and obesity. Remember African Americans are high for blood pressure. Perhaps higher rates of obesity and diabetes place African Americans at greater risk for high blood pressure and heart disease. Researchers have also found that there may be a gene that makes African-Americans much more salt sensitive. This trait increases the risk of developing HBP. In people who have this gene, as little as one extra gram (half a teaspoon) of salt could raise blood pressure as much as five millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Don’t forget bad diet, overweight to obese and sedentary life style play vital factors for getting HBP so on average it’s not just a gene factor but heredity does key in especially if you have disease (DM, Obese, Cardiac disease with HBP in the nuclear family especially).

Diet and medicine can control symptoms. You will have a yearly exam. Your health care provider will look for worse or new symptoms before beginning active treatment.

Why go to your health care provider? He will do a yearly exam looking for worse or new symptoms before beginning active treatment. Who should do this? Good candidates which are men with mild signs and symptoms of BPH, There are no side effects in having your doctor check you out. Just remember avoidance to the M.D. may make the situation to be harder to reduce your symptoms later on for not going to the M.D. yearly.

The causes of benign prostatic hyperplasia – (BPH)

The cause of BPH is not well understood; however, it occurs mainly in older men. Benign prostatic hyperplasia does not develop in men whose testicles were removed before puberty. For this reason, some researchers believe factors related to aging and the testicles may cause benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Throughout their lives, men produce testosterone, a male hormone, and small amounts of estrogen, a female hormone. As men age the amount of active testosterone in their blood decreases, which leaves a higher proportion of estrogen. Scientific studies have suggested that benign prostatic hyperplasia may occur because the higher proportion of estrogen within the prostate increases the activity of substances that promote prostate cell growth.

Another theory focuses on dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a male hormone that plays a role in prostate development and growth. Some research has indicated that even with a drop in blood testosterone levels, older men continue to produce and accumulate high levels of DHT in the prostate. This accumulation of DHT may encourage prostate cells to continue to grow. Scientists have noted that men who do not produce DHT do not develop benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Risk factors include aging and a family history of BPH. Other risk factors are obesity, lack of physical activity, and erectile dysfunction (ED).

Preventions Measures of Benign Prostate Hypertrophy – BPH:

There is no sure way to prevent BPH. Because excess body fat may affect hormone levels and cell growth, diet may play a role. Losing weight and eating a healthy diet, with fruits and vegetables, may help prevent BPH. Staying active also helps weight and hormone levels.

With BPH, the prostate gets larger. When it is enlarged, it can irritate or block the bladder. A common symptom of BPH is the need to urinate often. This can be every one to two hours, especially at night.

Symptoms of Benign Prostate Hypertrophy (BPH):

• Feeling that the bladder is full, even right after urinating
• Feeling that urinating “can’t wait”
• Weak urine flow
• Dribbling of urine
• The need to stop and start urinating several times
• Trouble starting to urinate
• The need to push or strain to urinate

In severe cases, you might not be able to urinate at all. This is an emergency. It must be treated right away. It is foolish for someone to not get checked or treated since the condition like any other disease left untreated will only worsen and in time possibly kill you (Ex. CHF OR Diabetes OR even Obesity).

How Can BPH Affect Your Life?

In most men, BPH gets worse as you age. It can lead to bladder damage and infection. It can cause blood in the urine. It can even cause kidney damage. Men with BPH should get treated. Mild cases of BPH may need no treatment at all. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures that do not require anesthesia are good choices. And sometimes a combination of medical treatments works best.

BPH is monitored by your doctor and there are active treatments.

Treatments to Benign Prostate Hypertrophy -BPH:

Medications are often the first treatment for BPH. There are two types of medications that may be prescribed.

• Alpha-Blockers: This type of medication relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, which helps urine flow better. Tamsulosin and alfuzosin are common alpha blockers often used as the first line of defense against BPH symptoms. They can provide relief for many individuals.
• 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: These medications target the hormones (dihydrotestosterone) that cause the prostate to grow. Finasteride and dutasteride are common examples of these medications, which slow the growth of the prostate and improve urinary symptoms over time.
• Combination Therapy: In some cases, your physician may prescribe a combination of alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors for a combined effect, offering both immediate relief and long-term benefits.

While medications can be effective in treating an enlarged prostate, some individuals may not be able to tolerate their side effects. Those may include lightheadedness, dry mouth, low blood pressure, falls, headaches, erectile dysfunction, retrograde ejaculation, reduced libido, nausea, or vomiting. If these occur and become burdensome, talk to your doctor so other treatment options can be explored.

Surgeries:

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a type of prostate surgery done to relieve moderate to severe urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

During TURP, a combined visual and surgical instrument (resectoscope) is inserted through the tip of your penis and into the tube that carries urine from your bladder (urethra). The urethra is surrounded by the prostate. Using the resectoscope, your doctor trims away excess prostate tissue that’s blocking urine flow and increases the size of the channel that allows you to empty your bladder.

TURP is one of the most effective options for treating urinary symptoms caused by BPH. 

There are other forms of surgeries There are several types of minimally invasive procedures to choose from, they include:

• Prostatic Stent                                                                
• High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
• Holmium Laser Enucleation of Prostate (HoLEP)
• Interstitial Laser Coagulation (ILC)
• Transurethral Electroevaporation of The Prostate TUVP
• Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT)
• Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA)
• Photoselective Vaporization (PVP)
• UroLift
• Catheterization
• How do you know which is best for you GO to the M.D. (Urologist), whose the expert in making that decision. Guess what guys? Many less invasive procedures can be done right in the doctor’s office. So go find out if you’re having symptoms of BPH! 
• How do you know which is best for you GO to the M.D. (Urologist), whose the expert in making that decision. Guess what guys? Many less invasive procedures can be done right in the doctor’s office. So go find out if you’re having symptoms of BPH!

National Hernia Awareness Month is observed each June. Hernias can be described as abnormal bulges created by a weakness or a hole, usually in the abdominal wall or groin. It occurs when an internal organ, such as the bowel or bladder, extends through the wall of the muscle or tissue where it normally resides.

A bulge in the abdomen or groin caused by a hernia is a common condition in both men and women and can range from pain-free to painful. Nearly 1 million hernia operations are performed each year in the United States.

There are a number of places and types of hernias that can occur within the body.

• Abdominal Hernia – Also referred to as a ventral hernia, abdominal hernias are generally a protrusion that occurs above the belt. This happens due to a weakness in the abdominal wall.
• Hiatal Hernia – This type of hernia is closely connected & can coincide with a Paraesophageal Hernia, with the main symptom being gastric reflux or GERD. A hiatal hernia can commonly reoccur after surgery to repair it.
• Umbilical Hernia – Occurs around or in your belly button. If your belly button typically is pushed in, leaving an indent, and suddenly it appears to have a something bulging out then you most likely have an umbilical hernia.
• Incisional Hernia – Occurs at the incision line of a previous surgery, due to the cutting of the skin, tissue, & muscles in that particular area creating a weakened site.
• Femoral Hernia – Occurs at the top of the leg or groin area. These types of hernias are more common in women and tend to be recurrent after a hernia has been repaired.
• Inguinal Hernia –Occurs below the belt and on either side or both sides of the groin and/or the scrotum area. This particular hernia is more common in men and can also be recurrent, even after surgery.

Hernias can be congenital, which means they were present at the time of birth. They can also develop due to tissue weakness in the abdominal wall or groin, usually from overexertion and straining. Long-term constipation issues or urinating, persistent cough, heavy lifting and physical exertion can all contribute to the development of hernias. Other factors that can increase your risk for hernias include poor nutrition, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obesity, pregnancy, previous surgeries (specifically open surgeries) and smoking.

When hernias become painful or symptomatic it may prevent patients from participating in work, exercise or other activities that they love to do. When a hernia becomes symptomatic it is important to see your primary care physician to discuss repair before the hernia becomes very large or turns into a very serious complication. When organs are stuck in a hernia, they can lose their blood supply, which may result in an emergency that requires immediate attention.

Many times, your physician will be able to diagnosis a hernia by physical exam. However, sometimes a hernia may be difficult to see or feel due to its location or a person’s body size and shape. In those instances, radiologic tests like a CT (computerized tomography) scan or ultrasound may be ordered to help with the diagnosis.

There are different options for surgical repair, including both open surgery and minimally invasive laparoscopic (using small incisions with a laparoscope) approaches. Many times, we utilize mesh to help repair the hernia to lower the recurrence risk. Hernia repair is usually performed under general anesthesia or on an outpatient basis, so patients may be able to go home on the same day of surgery.

“This June, like every other, is filled with talk of graduations, the scent of bar-b-q, and Fathers’ Day sales. But amidst all the hype, we need to remember that June is also Men’s Health Month – a vital, often overlooked, opportunity to shine a spotlight on the unique health challenges and preventative care needs of men. More than that, it’s a critical time to urge men to prioritize their health and encourage their loved ones to support them in doing so.

Many men, thanks to societal expectations, lack of awareness, or both, are about half as likely as women to have a regular healthcare provider, less likely to have regular screenings, and are far more likely to delay seeking medical attention until symptoms become unbearable. As a result, men are often diagnosed when their medical issue has already become advanced and may not be able to be treated at all (this appears to be the case in Joe Biden’s recent diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer). Understanding the health concerns for men is the first step toward proactive health management and longer, healthier lives.”

Healthy Men Inc (Men’s Health Month: Why It Matters More Than Ever – Healthy Men)

Men in this age range are encouraged to discuss the health concerns below with their doctors. These discussions can be part of a yearly annual wellness visit. While you may think you don’t need some of these tests, establishing a base line can be useful for continued health monitoring as you age, or as more acute health concerns arise.

• Physical exam: check blood pressure, screen for obesity and assess body composition (waist circumference). Testicular exam and testicular self-exam are important at this age.
• Metabolic screening: fasting blood sugar and fasting lipid profile based on risk and family history.
• Vaccines: influenza, COVID-19, Hepatitis A/B, HPV, Tdap and MMR should be considered.
• STI screening: HIV, Hepatitis B/C, syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia screening should be considered, and pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PreP) should be discussed.
• Assessment of risky behaviors: discuss any use of tobacco, alcohol, recreational drugs, anabolic steroids, as well as use of seatbelts and helmets and gun safety.
• Family planning: “pre-conception” counseling to educate men that adopting a healthy lifestyle—exercising, eating healthy foods, and avoiding substances—at an early age improves the chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy child.

Recommended screenings for adult men over 40

These screenings are similar to those recommended for younger men but start to look at health concerns that most often appear in middle age.

• Physical exam: check blood pressure, screen for obesity, measure body composition and consider prostate exam (in some cases).
• Metabolic screening: fasting blood sugar and fasting lipid profile and estimation of cardiovascular risk.
• Vaccines: influenza, covid-19, Hepatitis A/B, HPV (through age 45), Tdap and MMR. Shingles vaccine is recommended for adults over 50.
• STI screening: HIV, Hepatitis B/C, syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia screening should be considered, and pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PreP) should be discussed.
• Cardiovascular screening: based on risk and symptoms (may include stress testing or coronary artery calcium score).
• Cancer screening: based on family history and personal risks. May include prostate, colon and lung cancer screening as well as skin exam.
• Eye exam.
• GI screening if you haven’t already started.

Recommended screenings for adult men over 65

Older men should continue to evaluate their health and make lifestyle changes based on conversations with their doctors to ensure they are able to live life to the fullest.

• Physical exam: blood pressure, height and weight, waist circumference and prostate exam.
• Metabolic screening: fasting blood sugar, fasting lipid profile, thyroid function (in some cases).
• Vaccines: influenza, covid-19, Hepatitis A/B, Tdap, Pneumovax/Prevnar and Shingles.
• STI screening: based on risk.
• Cardiovascular screening: abdominal ultrasound, coronary artery calcium score and stress testing based on risk and symptoms.
• Cancer screening: prostate, colon and lung as well as skin exam.
• Osteoporosis: screening should be considered in men over 70, men who lose height over time or have a low impact fracture. Fall risk assessment should be completed.
• Eye exam.

Mental health is an important determinant of overall health and quality of life at every age. Although men are more likely to suffer “deaths of despair” including alcoholism, overdose and suicide, they are far less likely than women to seek out mental health services. Undiagnosed and untreated mood disorders in young men are associated with impaired learning, risk-taking behaviors, use of substances and violence. Adult men with chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease have worse outcomes when they also suffer from depression, and depression is associated with decreased longevity in older men.  Men are less likely to get treated than a women in screening or when signs or symptoms arise until they get in the way or regarding mental health do men make a move and help yourself since no one may do it for you.  Help yourself its June make a change for the best in your health!

“Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions worldwide.  In the U.S., over 7 million people aged 65 and older currently live with Alzheimer’s, and this number is projected to nearly double by 2050.   Globally, more than 55 million people live with dementia, with Alzheimer’s accounting for 60–80% of cases.  Women represent approximately two-thirds of U.S. Alzheimer’s patients, reflecting longer lifespans and genetic factors.  Dementia prevalence doubles every five years after age 65, affecting one in three by age 85.”

revivalresearch.org (Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month 2025: Facts and Support)

Key Early Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer’s:

Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life:

One of the most common early signs is forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events, and repeatedly asking the same questions. Individuals may increasingly rely on reminder notes, electronic devices, or family members for tasks they previously managed independently, which goes beyond typical age-related forgetfulness.

Challenges in Planning or Solving Problems:

People may struggle to develop or follow plans, work with numbers, or complete tasks like following a familiar recipe or managing monthly bills. Concentration difficulties and taking longer to complete tasks are also common.

Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks:

Everyday activities, such as driving to familiar locations, organizing a grocery list, or remembering game rules, may become challenging. This is more pronounced than occasional age-related forgetfulness.

Confusion with Time or Place:

Individuals may lose track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time, and may have trouble understanding events that are not happening immediately. They may also forget where they are or how they arrived at a location.                                                                                                                                                                      Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships:

Difficulty judging distances, reading, or interpreting visual cues can appear early, affecting tasks like driving or navigating familiar environments.

Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing:

Early Alzheimer’s can cause difficulty finding the right words, repeating phrases, or struggling to follow or join conversations.

Misplacing Things and Poor Judgment:

Items may be placed in unusual locations, and individuals may be unable to retrace steps. Decision-making and judgment, such as handling finances or social interactions, may decline.

Withdrawal and Mood Changes:

People may withdraw from work, social activities, or hobby.

Key Late Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer’s:

In the late stage of Alzheimer’s, individuals experience severe cognitive decline, loss of independence, and significant physical and communication difficulties, requiring around-the-clock care.

Cognitive and Memory Changes:

In late-stage Alzheimer’s, memory loss becomes profound, and individuals may no longer recognize family members, familiar people, or even themselves in a mirror .  They often lose awareness of recent experiences and may believe they are living in a past time, searching for people or events from earlier in life.  Cognitive abilities such as reasoning, judgment, and understanding of surroundings are severely impaired

Communication Difficulties:

People in this stage may gradually lose the ability to speak, often repeating a few words or phrases, or crying out intermittently. Understanding verbal communication becomes limited, making nonverbal cues like facial expressions, gestures, and touch essential for interaction Despite severe memory loss, they may still respond to stimuli such as music, scents, or gentle touch, which can provide comfort

Physical and Functional Decline:

Late-stage Alzheimer’s involves significant physical deterioration. Individuals may have difficulty walking, sitting, or eventually swallowing They often become inactive for long periods, remaining still with eyes open but not engaging in activities.  Loss of motor control and coordination increases vulnerability to falls and infections, particularly pneumonia

Behavioral and Personality Changes:

Personality changes are common, and individuals may exhibit impulsivity, agitation, or emotional fluctuations. They may also experience hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia as the disease progresses. Emotional responses can still be present, even when verbal communication is lost

Care Needs:

People in the late stage of Alzheimer’s require extensive, around-the-clock assistance with daily personal care, including eating, bathing, dressing, and toileting. Hospice or palliative care may be recommended to provide comfort, dignity, and support for both the individual and their family. Gentle engagement, such as listening to music or hand massages, can help maintain a sense of connection and well-being.
Understanding these symptoms can help caregivers prepare for the challenges of late-stage Alzheimer’s and ensure that individuals receive compassionate, appropriate care.

“This June during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Association® is encouraging all Americans to take charge of their brain health.

Today, there are nearly 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. The lifetime risk for the disease at age 45 is 1 in 5 for women and 1 in 10 for men. The brain changes that cause Alzheimer’s are thought to begin 20 years or more before symptoms start, which suggests that there may be a substantial window of time in which we can intervene in the progression of the disease.

Experts believe there isn’t a single cause of Alzheimer’s. It’s likely the disease develops as a result of multiple factors. While not a direct cause of Alzheimer’s, the greatest known risk factor is advancing age.”

State Nurses Association (June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month)

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia; accounting
for an estimated 60% to 80% of cases. This progressive brain disease develops slowly but has a huge impact on those who are living with it, their families, and caregivers.

Most individuals also have the brain changes of one or more other types of
dementia. This is called mixed pathology, and if recognized during life is called mixed dementia.

The number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease is growing. The ripple effect is straining families, communities, and the healthcare system, yet talking about the disease on a personal level can be difficult.

FACTS on Alzheimer’s Disease: