The Prostate Has Found Its Voice

The prostate gland, a small but essential organ found only in men, plays a key role in reproductive health. It produces fluid that nourishes, protects, and transports sperm, yet many focus only on its connection to prostate cancer.

Location & Function

• Situated between the bladder and penis, with the rectum behind it.
• The urethra passes through the prostate, carrying urine and semen.

Common Prostate Conditions

1. Prostatitis – Infection of the prostate:

• Symptoms: chills, fever, pus-like urethral discharge, painful urination, groin/testicular pain, painful orgasms, erectile dysfunction.
• Advice: Seek professional help; do not self-medicate.

2. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate:

• Symptoms: frequent urination (especially at night), urge incontinence, difficulty starting urination, weak stream, painful urination, blood in urine, terminal dribbling, and in severe cases, inability to urinate.
• BPH can be extremely painful, sometimes compared to labor pains.

3. Prostate Cancer – Common among men, especially black men, often aggressive and with earlier onset:

• Risk Factors: older age, African descent, family history, obesity.
• Symptoms: frequent urination, straining, blood in urine/semen, weak urine flow, new erectile dysfunction; advanced stages may include fatigue, weight loss, and bone pain.

Diagnosis

• Digital rectal examination – checks for irregular or hard areas.
• PSA test, biopsy, ultrasound, CT/MRI/PET scans, bone scan.

Management

• Holistic approaches include watchful waiting, medication, surgery, and radiation (external & brachytherapy).
• Always discuss all options with your healthcare provider.

Risk Reduction Tips

• Regular screening
• Healthy, varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables (carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, kale, cauliflower)
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise at least 5 days a week

Final Advice

• Share this information – the prostate needs support!
• Maintain good hygiene, walk and exercise daily, pray, and know your numbers (blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, BMI).

Thought for the Week:

“There is no magic formula to being happy but making a conscious effort to be happy goes a long way.” – Dr. Kojo Cobba Essel

Dr. Essel invites readers to the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel Wellness Festival on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 6 a.m., to walk, exercise, network, and share ideas to stay healthy.

Contact: dressel@healthessentialsgh.com

By Dr. Kojo Cobba Essel

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