Introduction

There is a conversation that too few Nigerian men are having with their doctors, their pharmacists, or even with each other.

It is about the prostate gland a small organ that causes enormous suffering for millions of Nigerian men over the age of 40, yet remains poorly understood and rarely discussed.

Prostate problems affect most men to some degree as they age. In Nigeria, cultural silence, embarrassment, and lack of awareness mean that too many men suffer unnecessarily for years before seeking help.

This guide is designed to change that.

What is the Prostate Gland?

The prostate is a small gland, about the size of a walnut, located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men.

It surrounds the urethra the tube that carries urine out of the body.

Its main role is to produce fluid that forms part of semen.

Because of its position, any swelling or inflammation of the prostate directly affects urination. This is why most prostate problems first appear as urinary symptoms.

The Three Main Prostate Conditions

1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Enlarged Prostate

BPH is the most common prostate condition.

It is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that becomes more common with age. By age 60, many men will have some degree of enlargement.

BPH is not cancer. Whether it increases the risk of prostate cancer is still debated. Some studies suggest a link, while others show no direct relationship. The association may be due to shared risk factors and increased medical screening rather than a direct cause.

However, BPH can significantly affect quality of life and may lead to:

• Urinary retention
• Bladder damage
• Kidney problems

2. Prostatitis Inflamed Prostate

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate, often due to infection.

It can occur at any age and may be:

• Acute (sudden and severe) typically treated with antibiotics for about 2–4 weeks
• Chronic (long-lasting) may require longer treatment, often 4 weeks or more

Symptoms include pain, burning urination, and pelvic discomfort.

With proper treatment, most cases can be managed effectively.

3. Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men worldwide and is more common in men of African descent, including Nigerians.

It often grows slowly, and when detected early, it is highly treatable.

⚠️ In early stages, prostate cancer usually has no symptoms.

This makes screening extremely important.

Symptoms: What to Watch For

Any of the following symptoms should not be ignored:

• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Dribbling after urination
• Sudden urgency to urinate
• Pain or burning during urination
• Blood in urine or semen (urgent attention needed)
• Pain in lower back, hips, or pelvis
• Erectile dysfunction alongside urinary symptoms

⚠️ These symptoms do not always mean cancer but they always require evaluation.

Who is at Risk?

• Age- risk increases significantly after 40
• African descent- higher prostate cancer risk
• Family history- doubles risk
• Diet- high intake of red and processed meat
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity

Diagnosis: How Prostate Problems Are Detected

Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

A doctor examines the prostate through the rectum.

• Quick
• May feel slightly uncomfortable for some men
• Can detect abnormalities early

It is a simple but important test that can save lives.

PSA Blood Test

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test measures a protein in the blood.

• Elevated levels may indicate BPH, infection, or cancer
• Not a definitive cancer test

Men over 40 should discuss PSA testing with their doctor and decide together when to start screening.

Further Tests

If needed:

• Ultrasound
• Biopsy

Treatment Options

For BPH (Enlarged Prostate)

• Watchful waiting (mild cases)
• Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin)
• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride)
• Surgery (TURP)

For Prostatitis

• Antibiotics (based on cause and duration)
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Alpha-blockers

⚠️ Always seek professional care avoid self-medication.

For Prostate Cancer

• Active surveillance
• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Chemotherapy

How to Protect Your Prostate

• Eat more vegetables (especially cabbage, broccoli, leafy greens)
• Include tomatoes regularly they contain lycopene, which may be associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer, although evidence is still developing
• Reduce red and processed meat
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Stay hydrated
• Limit alcohol
• Get screened regularly

Breaking the Silence

Many Nigerian men suffer in silence.

They ignore symptoms. They avoid doctors. They delay until the problem becomes serious.

With prostate health, this delay can cost lives.

Speaking up early is strength. Screening early saves lives.

Conclusion

Prostate conditions are common, serious, and often highly treatable especially when detected early.

Every Nigerian man over 40 should:

• Know the symptoms
• Understand the risks
• Have regular conversations with a healthcare professional

At Amkamed Pharmaceuticals, Gombe State, our pharmacists are here to guide you on symptoms, medications, and where to access specialist care.

Men over 40: don’t wait. Check your prostate.

Visit Amkamed Pharmaceuticals, Gombe State for guidance and referrals.

amkamed.com

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