OPTIMIZING THE MEDICAL-MANAGEMENT OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

The ageing population is presenting an increasing demand on future hea lthcare services. In males, prostatic disease is one of the commonest disorders contributing to this. Alternatives to surgical intervention have to be considered as the preferred option For individuals and whet her this be a therapeutic or a financial option to be taken. Two major medical alternatives are alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibit ors. The results of such treatment can be very beneficial in selected groups of patients. Side-effects with improved drugs electivity are re ducing. Overall, while surgery still holds the gold standard, medical therapy has a significant role in the treatment of benign prostatic hy pertrophy. Cost analysis may be a factor in deciding which treatment t o have.