Prostate disease is one of the most overlooked men's health issues, yet the risk rises with age, making regular screening and early detection crucial.
The first warning signs, including frequent nighttime urination, a weak urine stream, difficulty emptying the bladder, or an urgent need to urinate, are often dismissed as normal ageing.
However, Dr Kepha Nyanumba says these symptoms may signal an underlying prostate condition that requires prompt medical attention.
"The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder. It produces seminal fluid and helps regulate urine flow. A healthy prostate functions without inflammation, enlargement, infection or cancer," he explains.
He cautions that prostate conditions should not be viewed as an inevitable part of growing older, as many can be effectively managed when detected early. Delaying treatment, he says, can allow symptoms to worsen and increase the risk of complications.
The most common prostate conditions are prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, commonly known as an enlarged prostate, and prostate cancer.
While enlarged prostate and prostate cancer mainly affect older men, prostatitis can occur at any age, affecting an estimated 9 to 16 per cent of men during their lifetime. Knowing the symptoms and seeking medical advice early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Dr Nyanumba says the earliest signs of prostate problems often involve changes in urinary habits.
"The first symptoms may include frequent urination, especially at night, difficulty starting urination, a weak urine stream, dribbling after urination, pain or burning during urination, and the feeling that the bladder has not emptied completely," he says.
In more advanced cases, men may notice blood in urine or semen, persistent pelvic pain, lower back discomfort, erectile dysfunction, or unexplained weight loss, particularly if prostate cancer is present.
For Lary Otieno, 58, the symptoms began gradually. He initially found himself waking up several times each night to use the bathroom.
At first, he ignored the problem, believing it was a normal consequence of ageing. However, as the interruptions became more frequent and his sleep quality deteriorated, fatigue began affecting his daily activities and work performance.
Similarly, 62-year-old James Mwangi noticed that urination was becoming increasingly difficult. He often felt the urge to urinate but struggled to start the flow. Even after visiting the toilet, he felt as though his bladder remained partially full.
"It became frustrating and embarrassing," recalls Mwangi. "I started planning my movements around access to toilets. That's when I realised something wasn't right".
Medical evaluation later revealed that both men were experiencing symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.
According to Dr Nyanumba, untreated prostate conditions can have far-reaching consequences beyond urinary discomfort.
"Poor prostate health can affect sleep, productivity, sexual function and overall quality of life," says Dr Nyanumba. "If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including bladder and kidney damage".
He says many men delay seeking treatment because of fear or stigma, urging those aged 50 and above, as well as younger men with a family history of prostate cancer, to go for regular screening.
"Early detection saves lives," he says, adding that a healthy diet, regular exercise and routine check-ups can help lower the risk of prostate disease.
For Otieno and Mwangi, seeking treatment early brought relief and underscored the importance of not ignoring warning signs.