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Urologic diseases in America project: benign prostatic hyperplasia
John T Wei1, Elizabeth Calhoun, Steven J Jacobsen
1Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA. Jtwei@umich.edu
The Journal of Urology
|March 11, 2005
Summary
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) affects millions of American men, leading to significant healthcare costs. Research is needed to understand risk factors and optimize BPH treatments for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Public Health
- Health Economics
Background:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent condition in aging men, causing lower urinary tract symptoms.
- It affects a significant portion of men in their seventh decade of life, with millions requiring treatment discussions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiological trends and healthcare utilization for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in the United States.
- To highlight the economic burden and evolving treatment landscape of BPH.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of physician office visit data and inpatient procedures for BPH diagnosis and treatment.
- Review of trends in BPH management during the 1990s and 2000.
Main Results:
- In 2000, BPH accounted for approximately 4.5 million primary diagnosis visits and 8 million total diagnosis visits.
- There was a notable increase in outpatient visits for BPH, alongside a decrease in transurethral prostatectomies and inpatient hospitalizations.
- The direct cost of BPH treatment in 2000 was estimated at $1.1 billion, excluding outpatient pharmaceuticals.
Conclusions:
- BPH significantly impacts men's quality of life and incurs substantial healthcare costs.
- Further research into BPH risk factors, diagnostic methods, and cost-effective therapies is essential.