PATTAYA, Thailand – Dr. Niti Navanimitkul, MD, from the Urology Center at Bangkok Hospital Pattaya gave an informative presentation to the Pattaya City Expats Club on Wednesday, January 8, about prostate health, focusing on various treatments for prostate issues, including low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which can significantly impact men’s quality of life.
He explained that testosterone levels decline by 1-2% each year after the age of 50, leading to various health issues such as decreased libido, energy, and bone density. Dr. Niti mentioned several treatment options for low testosterone, including pills, gels, and injections, but he mentioned he prefers gels and injections due to potential liver inflammation caused by pills.
The presentation covered various treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as medications, vacuum devices, shock wave therapy, and stem cell treatment, emphasizing the importance of addressing this common issue among older men.
Dr. Niti then highlighted that BPH, or the enlargement of the prostate, is a common condition in aging men, affecting over 50% of men over 60 years old, leading to urination problems. There are various treatment options including behavioral modifications, medications, and surgeries, noting that many patients prefer less invasive treatments.
Now available is the UroLift procedure, a minimally invasive treatment that involves placing small clips to compress the prostate and open the urethra improving urination flow. It also offers a fast recovery with minimal side effects. He mentioned clinical guidelines from various health associations that support the use of UroLift for patients with BPH who want to preserve sexual function and avoid major surgery. The procedure has a long-lasting effect of 5 to 10 years, though 30% of patients may require a secondary surgery after five years.
Prior to the start of the meeting, staff from Bangkok Hospital Pattaya provided free health screenings. Those taking advantage of these received a lucky draw ticket. After Dr. Niti’s presentation, a drawing was held to award vouchers for a free prostate screening package at the Hospital for those holding five of the lucky tickets.
Following the presentation and lucky drawing, MC Ren Lexander brought everyone up to date on upcoming events followed by the Open Forum portion of the meeting where questions are asked and comments made about Expat living in Thailand, especially Pattaya. To view the video of Dr. Niti’s presentation, visit the PCEC’s YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5b9eS8NX3k. A video of his post presentation interview can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnrGFVaph4M&t=6s. To learn more about the PCEC, visit their website at https:/pcec.club.
