As men age, there are changes in their body that are inevitable. Some are getting bald, their muscles become smaller and weaker, vision starts to blur, even their sex drive is affected. And it’s not just physical changes that are involved, men are also susceptible to any aging-related health conditions like Benign(BPH) Prostatic Hyperplasia just to mention one.
DID YOU KNOW?
24% of Filipino men aged 50-59 suffer from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) with at least moderate symptoms.
Not all may experience this condition, but EVERY male population is at risk to have BPH or enlargement of the prostate in layman’s term. It could be your friend, brother, husband, boyfriend, dad… ALL MEN!
To raise awareness about this common health condition, GlaxoSmithKline Philippines (GSK), a global leading healthcare company, pioneered World BPH Day last June 25 through an advocacy campaign called FUN to be WISE on BPH. The said campaign aims to inform Filipinos about BPH symptoms so men can consult their doctors to seek medical advice and treatment to achieve better quality of life. It also addresses not just men but every person to take action.
BPH is not malignant or cancerous but it can affect the flow of urine. Whether it is incontinence or painful urination, this will definitely hinder the way a person lives. If untreated, BPH can also lead to Acute Urinary Retention (AUR) and may require surgery.
With GSK’s FUNWISE acronym, which is based on the International Prostate Symptom Score, men can know if they are experiencing symptoms of BPH.
F for Frequency
Over the past two months, how often have you had to urinate two hours after you finished urinating?
U for Urgency
Over the past month, how often have you found it difficult to postpone urination?
N for Nocturia
Over the past month, how many times do you typically get up at night to urinate?
W for Weak Stream
Over the past month, how often have you had a weak urinary stream?
I for Intermittency
Over the past month, how often have you found yourself to have stopped and started again while you were urinating?
S for Straining
Over the past month, how often have you had to push or strain to begin to urinate?
E for Incomplete Emptying
Over the past month, how often have you had a sensation of not emptying a bladder completely after you finish urinating?
It’s a good thing that symptoms are noticeable, men can actually prevent it from worsening. Remember, prevention is better than cure. Every man at the prime of his life deserves a life where he can enjoy the things that he loves to do—such as trips with his family and sports like biking and hiking—without any hindrances and discomforts caused by BPH.
You can improve the quality of your life even if you’re suffering from BPH. Consult your doctor if you have any of the above symptoms.
For more information, go to www.gsk.com.ph
