[Comparative population-based survey as evaluation method of prostate disease changes]

A survey-based comparative study was conducted to evaluate the changes on the prostate pathology in two male populations separated by a time interval of two years (1st and 3rd Week of Prostate Health). A total of 2056 respondents in the 1st Week, and 2126 in the 3rd Week were evaluated. The questionnaire included questions relative to prostate awareness, impact of urinary complaints on daily like activities, Spanish validated IPSS and selective questions for prostate patients. The comparison between both surveys disclosed visits to the urologist at earlier age and longer-standing symptoms. The most prevalent symptoms continue to be decreased calibre of the urinary stream, pollakiuria and urgency. IPSS/L and IPSS/age ratios remained unchanged. There was increased number of visits by mildly symptomatic patients (IPSS < 8), increased periodical revisions, and in the number of patients seen and treated by the urologist. A significant approximation to the diagnostic testing criteria established by the WHO for BPH was demonstrated. The number of patients who received treatment raised and there was also a significant improvement in the outcome. Comparative populational studies could allow to assess changes in the awareness status of the prostate, changes in symptomatic levels and quality of life of the population requesting health care, as well as changes in the diagnostic and therapeutical schemes in patients suspected of having BPH.