Prostate Health adn the Risks Lurking in Your Kitchen
Dealing with an enlarged prostate can be challenging, and choosing the right treatment is crucial. One reader, D.T., recently faced this dilemma after experiencing a fully blocked urethra. His urologist prescribed finasteride and alfuzosin, but a second opinion in Florida advised against the finasteride. So,what’s the best course of action?
“I was diagnosed with an enlarged prostate two months ago,” D.T. explains. “I thought it was another kidney stone, but I had a totally blocked urethra. I was sent home from the emergency room with a two-week catheter.My urologist prescribed 5 mg of finasteride and alfuzosin.”
Finasteride: Effective, But Not a Rapid Fix
According too a leading medical expert, the Florida urologist’s advice is overly simplistic. “The studies clearly show that finasteride (Proscar),like its cousin dutasteride (Avodart),are effective at treating an enlarged prostate,” the expert states. “There is strong evidence that they shrink the prostate, slow progression of prostate enlargement, improve symptoms, and reduce the need for surgery.” The expert also notes a significant reduction in prostate cancer risk,estimating a 25% to 50% decreased relative risk.
However, the expert clarifies a key point: “These drugs work very slowly.You’ll get about half the benefit you’ll ever get after six months of treatment. This is in sharp contrast to alpha blockers like alfuzosin, wich work well the day you take them.”
The expert concludes that combining both finasteride and an alpha-blocker is often a sound strategy, especially in cases of severe obstruction, as experienced by D.T. “The data generally support your first urologist’s decision,” the expert advises.
Hidden Dangers in Household Plastics
Beyond prostate health, a recent study highlights another potential concern: flame retardants in everyday household items. “A study was published in October showing that many household products made of black plastic are contaminated with flame retardants,” the expert reveals. “These are often made from recycled materials, some of which contain large amounts of flame-retardant chemicals.”
These chemicals,some of which have been banned,pose potential health risks,including increased cancer risk,hormonal disruption,and developmental defects in children. while the study doesn’t quantify the exact risk, the levels detected exceed recommended limits.”I often see studies where there is a negligible risk that is blown out of proportion by the press,” the expert cautions.”Though, as it isn’t hard to reduce risk, it’s reasonable to replace black plastic products you use every day with something safer like metal, wood, bamboo or silicone. I did.”
This details is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
