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Can the size of prostate be reduced without surgery?

PAE is a nonsurgical procedure that decreases the blood supply to the prostate, thus reducing its size and symptoms. An interventional radiologist, who uses X-rays and other imaging techniques to see inside the body and treat conditions without surgery, performs PAE.

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If you’re a man over 50, you have a one in three chance of having benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the most common benign tumor found in men. BPH causes symptoms such as lack of bladder control, increased urinary frequency, and urgency and pain. For those with minor symptoms, medication or diet changes can help, but as symptoms increase, surgery is often the next step. But for men who are not candidates for surgery, or have a strong desire to avoid surgery, prostatic artery embolization (PAE) is a new treatment option. Interventional radiologist Brian Holly, M.D. , explains what you should know about the prostatic artery embolization procedure and if it may be right for you.

What is PAE?

PAE is a nonsurgical procedure that decreases the blood supply to the prostate, thus reducing its size and symptoms. An interventional radiologist, who uses X-rays and other imaging techniques to see inside the body and treat conditions without surgery, performs PAE. At Johns Hopkins, our interventional radiologists are expertly trained and experienced in performing this technically challenging procedure.

Who is eligible for PAE?

The PAE procedure is best for candidates who are either ineligible due to pre-existing health conditions or not interested in traditional surgery. An exam with an interventional radiologist can determine if you are a candidate for PAE. At this appointment, you may be asked how often you have urinary symptoms of BPH, how severe they are, and how much they affect your quality of life. Men who have advanced heart diseases associated with smoking or diabetes may not be candidates for PAE.

What are the benefits to PAE?

PAE is less invasive then other procedures so patients can return to their normal lives sooner. The PAE procedure can also have a lower risk of urinary incontinence and sexual side effects (retrograde ejaculation or erectile dysfunction), when compared with more invasive surgical procedures such as a TransUrethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP).

How effective is PAE?

PAE is a new and promising procedure. In a study published in 2016, 630 patients underwent a prostate artery embolization procedure. The study found that the procedure had a positive effect on urinary symptoms as well as overall quality of life. This positive effect lasted 1-3 years in 82% of the patients and lasted 3-7 years in 76% of the patients. Additionally, there was no urinary incontinence or sexual dysfunction reported. With the high success rate of PAE, men ineligible for surgery are able improve their quality of life by eliminating or reducing uncomfortable BPH symptoms. Be sure to speak to your urologist to help determine the best approach for you.

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Can I just take turmeric powder?

There are no long-term studies to show whether it's safe to take turmeric supplements every day. Studies suggest it is safe at small doses, but be aware that high doses or long-term use may cause GI issues in some people. Turmeric may also interfere with certain medications and health conditions.

There are several ways to try turmeric.

As a Root

Find this in the refrigerated section of the produce aisle at many grocery and specialty stores, as well as online. You may also find dried turmeric root in your local specialty store. Turmeric root looks squiggly, similar to ginger. Scrape off the peel with a spoon before using. Fresh turmeric should be refrigerated in an airtight container, and will keep up to a week.

As a Tea

You can make what’s called “golden milk” by whisking together about 1 tsp of turmeric with other spices (such as cinnamon and black pepper) into warmed milk and your sweetener of choice. You can also buy turmeric tea in tea bag form, available from brands like The Republic of Tea and Swanson Organic.

As a Spice

Look for turmeric as a ground spice in your spice aisle at the grocery store. Turmeric is also the main component of curry powder. Keep spice jars in a cool, dark place to prevent spoilage. Most companies include the “best by” dates; you should aim to use it before then. Buy large containers of turmeric only when you know you’re going to use all of it by the listed date. Look for it in the bulk section of a co-op or specialty store, so you can buy just as much as you’re going to use.

As a Supplement

For more potency, you may opt for a turmeric or curcumin supplement, available at health food stores, grocery stores, and online. These are available in formulations like soft gels and capsules.

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