- Rising Cases: Prostate cancer is affecting younger Nigerian men.
- Expert Concerns: Medical professionals are urging for more awareness and early detection.
- Advanced Treatment: Kelina Hospital in Lagos offers minimally invasive surgery with high success rates.
- HoLEP Surgery: A preferred method for managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) with quick recovery times.
- Robotic Surgery: Kelina Hospital is set to introduce Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RARP), advancing urological surgery in Africa.
Young Nigerians at Risk: Prostate Cancer on the Rise
The narrative around prostate cancer is changing rapidly. Previously considered a disease primarily affecting older men, cases are now surfacing among younger Nigerians, some even in their twenties. This shift highlights a critical gap in public health awareness and underscores the urgent need for early detection and preventative measures.
Hope and Advanced Treatment at Kelina Hospital
Amidst growing concerns, Kelina Hospital in Lagos is providing state-of-the-art treatment options, particularly through minimally invasive surgery. The hospital boasts an impressive record of 6,000 successful surgical operations without a single mortality, a remarkable achievement in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. According to The Guardian, Dr. Celsus Undie, President of Kelina Hospital, states that they conduct over 100 prostate surgeries annually, addressing both benign and cancerous conditions, contributing significantly to improved prostate care standards in Nigeria.
HoLEP: A Game-Changer in Prostate Treatment
Kelina Hospital has pioneered the Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) procedure in Nigeria, performing over 500 such surgeries since 2018. HoLEP is now recognized as the leading surgical approach for managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where an enlarged prostate obstructs urine flow. Recommended by both the American Urological Association and the European Association of Urology, HoLEP offers patients a faster recovery, reduced hospital stays, lower infection risks, and often eliminates the need for blood transfusions.
Advancing Surgical Capabilities: The Future is Robotic
Kelina Hospital continues to push the boundaries of surgical innovation. Having performed the first laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in Nigeria back in 2012, they are now preparing to introduce Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RARP) this year. This positions them at the forefront of robotic urological surgery in Africa, supported by collaborations with international training centers like the African Urology Training Centre at IRCAD in Kigali, Rwanda. Dr. Bertin Njinou, Head of the Training Centre, emphasized that robotic surgery provides greater precision, faster recovery times, and fewer post-operative complications.
Lifestyle and Prevention: Key to Managing Risk
Experts stress the importance of nutrition and early detection in managing prostate cancer risk. A diet rich in broccoli, tomatoes, cucumbers, and green tea is recommended, while smoking, alcohol, and exposure to harmful chemicals should be avoided. Early detection through regular check-ups remains crucial in improving treatment outcomes.
Training and Expertise: Investing in Local Talent
Kelina Hospital is dedicated to developing local expertise, investing in the training of Nigerian urologists through global fellowships. They have also introduced advanced procedures like Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and Laser Lithotripsy for treating kidney stones, further expanding their capabilities.
A Call for Early Action
Dr. Kenechi Nedosa, a family physician at Kelina Hospital, expressed concern over the increasing number of young prostate cancer patients, emphasizing the need for early treatment and cautioning against prolonged catheter use, which can lead to severe complications. He reiterated that Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) is the safest surgical option for patients with enlarged prostates, particularly those seeking to avoid blood transfusions.
World-Class Care at Home
The message from Kelina Hospital is clear: with proactive lifestyle adjustments, early diagnosis, and trust in local healthcare providers, Nigerians can receive world-class treatment within their own country, avoiding unnecessary medical travel and ensuring better health outcomes.
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