Download kidney stones/vegetarian diet

Genito-Urinary Tract
Kidney Diseases
Kidney Stones
Urinary Tract Infection
Bladder Cancer
Urinary Incontinence
Prostate Diseases
Prostities
Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Prostate Cancer
Others
Kidney Diseases:
Kidney stone:
KIDNEY STONES/VEGETARIAN DIET
A diet low in animal protein lowers the risk of kidney stone formation according to a
nationwide UK study. Vegetarians had a 40 to 60 percent lower rate of kidney stones than
meat eaters. (European Neurology 8:334-339, 1982) Copyright Phylis Austin
STRESS/KIDNEY STONES
Stress increases the risk of kidney stones according to a recent study. Potassium and
magnesium, known to inhibit stone formation, are decreased during times of stress, while
uric acid and inorganic phosphorus, known to promote kidney stones, are increased.
(Urology International 39:159-164, 1984) Copyright Phylis Austin
RICE BRAN/KIDNEY STONES
A Japanese study reveals that rice bran may be effective in the prevention of recurrent
kidney stone disease. High levels of calcium in the urine are associated with a high
incidence of kidney stones. This study of 70 patients demonstrated that rice bran
significantly reduced urinary calcium excretion. (The Journal of Urology 132:1140-1145,
December, 1984) Copyright Phylis Austin
SALT/KIDNEYS
Excessive salt intake has been shown to increase kidney size in laboratory rats. (New
Zealand Medical Journal 96(743)920-922, 1983) Kidney changes are sometimes seen in
connection with high blood pressure. Copyright Phylis Austin
KIDNEY STONES/LIQUID INTAKE
A Gainesville, Florida researcher reports that a positive association exists between the
use of carbonated beverages and kidney stone formation. (Journal of Chronic Disease
38(11)907, 1985) Still another reason to drink water! It is still the best beverage to
cleanse the blood. Copyright Phylis Austin
KIDNEY STONES/LITHOTRIPSY
Fredric Coe, M.D., Director of Nephrology at Pritzker School of Medicine in Chicago, at
a National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference on the use of
extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (treating kidney stones by applying shock waves to
the body) urged physicians to advise patients on methods of preventing kidney stones to
avoid the risks associated with this form of treatment. Known adverse effects of
lithotripsy include increased stone formation rates, kidney changes, and high blood
pressure. Dr. Coe suggests that physicians encourage kidney stone patients to increase
their fluid intake, avoid excessive salt consumption, and limit their intake of dairy
products and meat. (Modern Medicine 56:40-41, August 1988) Copyright Phylis Austin
KIDNEY STONES/OVERWEIGHT/ANIMAL PROTEIN
An Italian study reveals an association between obesity and kidney stones. Previous
studies have shown a relationship between high animal protein consumption and kidney
stones. It is possible that this high protein intake is also responsible for obesity in kidney
stone patients. (Urological Research 16(3)201, 1988) Copyright Phylis Austin
KIDNEY STONES/SALT/OSTEOPOROSIS
Lowering salt consumption may help prevent kidney stones. Salt intake increases calcium
loss, and this calcium may be converted into stones. Calcium loss may play a role in the
production of osteoporosis, and may be decreased by reducing the amount of salt
consumed. (The Lancet 2:412, February 17, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
KIDNEY STONES/PROTEIN INTAKE
A high intake of protein may lead to the formation of kidney stones. (Urological
Research 16(3)194, 1988) Another study of Japanese renal stone sufferers revealed that
patients consumed large amounts of animal proteins, particularly in the evening meal.
(Journal of Urology 143:1093-1095, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
DEHYDRATION/KIDNEY STONES
Chronic dehydration may be a common cause of kidney stones according to a recent
report from London. A hot climate, a hot occupation, and insufficient water intake are the
most frequent causes of this chronic dehydration. Simply instructing kidney stone
patients to increase their water intake may be sufficient to reduce their incidence of
kidney stones. (British Journal of Urology 55:357-362, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
CALCIUM/KIDNEY STONES
The use of calcium supplements increases the risk of development of kidney stones,
while calcium in foods decreases the risk, according to the Harvard School of Public
Health. (Annals of Internal Medicine 126(7)497-504, 1997) Copyright Phylis Austin
COLA CONSUMPTION/KIDNEY STONES
Consuming large quantities of cola-flavored drinks may lead to the development of
kidney stones in susceptible individuals. A study from the Department of Urology,
University of Rochester Medical Center, in Rochester, New York, observed that cola
intake changed the constitution of the urine. (Urology 34(4)331-333, April 1992)
Copyright Phylis Austin
KIDNEY STONES/HOT OCCUPATIONS
Men who work in hot occupations which induce profuse perspiration are at risk of
suffering chronic dehydration, which may lead to urinary tract stone formation. Those
who work in extreme heat need to make a conscious effort to take adequate fluids.
(Journal of Urology 150:1757-1760, December, 1993) Copyright Phylis Austin
CALCIUM/KIDNEY STONES
Because calcium is known to play a role in kidney stone formation physicians have been
placing their kidney stone patients on low calcium diets. There have been no good studies
that show benefit from this dietary restriction.
A recent 12-year study of over 91,000 women being followed in the Nurses' Health
Study, indicates that dietary calcium decreases the risk of kidney stones, while calcium
supplements increase the risk. The researchers point out that foods are more than the sum
of their nutrients. Other factors in food may impact utilization and absorption.
They also observed that sucrose and sodium intake increase the risk of kidney stones,
while fluid intake and potassium reduce the risk. (Annals of Internal Medicine
126(7)497-504, April 1, 1997). Another reason to get your vitamins and minerals from
food instead of pills.
It is believed that calcium in food ties up oxalates present in other foods, reducing the
amount of oxalate available to form stones. Oxalates are among the commonest
substances causing kidney stones. Copyright Phylis Austin
DIET/URINARY STONES
A review of the influence of diet on urinary stone formation reminds of the importance of
adequate fluid intake. Tap water should be taken freely throughout the day, with
sufficient volume taken prior to bedtime. Coffee, tea, and alcohol should be eliminated
from the diet. Coffee and tea both increase uric acid excretion.
Vegetarians eliminate less oxalic and uric acid and less calcium, and have lower rates of
urinary stones. Fiber as found in whole grain breads, vegetables and fruits lower urinary
calcium excretion. An increase in animal protein correlates with an increase in urinary
stone production.
Excessive protein consumption increases uric acid, oxalic acid and calcium excretion,
which may lead to stone formation. Urinary stone formers have been found to consume
more fat than similar subjects without stones. As the use of fats and oils increase in a
population so does the incidence of urinary stones.
Sugar and sodium (salt) intake increase calcium and oxalic acid excretion, a risk factor
for kidney stones. Milk, cheese, mineral waters with high calcium levels, and other high
calcium foods should be avoided by those who form calcium oxalate or calcium
phosphate stones. (Urologic Research 14:283-288, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
TEA/URINARY STONES
Drinking tea may increase the risk of formation of stones in the urinary tract. A study
carried out in Saudi Arabia demonstrated that oxalate excretion is increased with the
intake of tea. It is known that stone production increases as the intake of sugar, calcium,
and animal protein increases. (Annals of Saudi Medicine 8(2)108-112, 1988) Copyright
Phylis Austin
Urinary tract infection:
CONTRACEPTIVE DIAPHRAGMS/URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
Women who use diaphragms to prevent pregnancy run a higher than average risk of
developing urinary tract infections. Dr. Robert Latham of the University of Utah Medical
Center in Salt Lake City reports that diaphragm users had an infection rate of 21 percent.
Women in general have a yearly urinary tract infection rate of 1-5 percent. Dr. Latham
doesn't fully understand the cause of this increased infection rate, but it may be due to
changes in the flora of the vagina, or to obstruction of the urethra, producing urine
retention. Diaphragm users reported a mean average of 5 1/2 months of diaphragm use
before the first infection. (Internal Medicine News 17(24)12, December 15-31, 1984)
Copyright Phylis Austin
CRANBERRY JUICE/URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
Cranberry juice may decrease the ability of bacteria to adhere to urinary tract cells,
allowing them to be flushed out of the body more readily. (Journal of Urology
131(5)1013-1016, 1984) Copyright Phylis Austin
URINARY TRACT INFECTION/SOAP
Many women with recurrent urinary tract infections may experience considerable relief if
they discontinue the use of soap in the genital area. Seventeen out of twenty-two women
reported no further problem when they began using only water to wash the genital area.
(The Lancet 1(8384)1027-1028, May 5, 1984) Copyright Phylis Austin
URINE PRODUCTION/INTRA-ABDOMINAL PRESSURE
Increasing intra-abdominal pressure may reduce the ability of the kidneys to form urine.
Studies indicate that renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rates are significantly
decreased. (Journal of the American Medical Association 253(1)39, January 4, 1985)
Tight clothing such as belts and girdles increase intra-abdominal pressure and should be
avoided. Copyright Phylis Austin
DIAPHRAGMS/URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
Women who use diaphragms to prevent pregnancy are at two-and-a-half times the risk of
developing urinary tract infections than are those who do not use them. (Journal of the
American Medical Association 254(2), July 12, 1985) Copyright Phylis Austin
DYSURIA/SOAP
Soap may induce dysuria (painful urination). Fifty women with urinary tract disorders
were improved or cured when they learned to wash the genitalia with water only. Some
of the women in the study had histories of frequent urinary tract infections, and some had
had continual problems for several years. (The Lancet 1:1027-1028, 1984) Another
simple thing causing recurring cystitis is habitually chilled feet and legs. Copyright
Phylis Austin
COLD FEET/URINARY TRACT INFECTION
A study from Norway suggests that cooling of the feet in women may contribute to the
development of urinary tract infection. Another study suggests that cold hands, cold hips,
and cold legs all increase the risk of development of urinary tract infection. (European
Urology 18(Suppl 1)239, June 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS/URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
A high intake of calcium may lead to increased risk of urinary tract infection by
encouraging bacteria to stick to the lining of the urinary tract, rather than being flushed
out with the urine. It has been estimated that there are six to seven million doctor's office
visits each year for urinary tract infections. About one- fifth of the population suffer three
to six urinary tract infections per year. A study from the Department of Biological
Sciences at Youngstown State University in Ohio, reveals that excess calcium levels in
the urine encourage bacterial adherence. Women taking calcium supplements in an
attempt to prevent osteoporosis may be bringing on urinary tract infections. (Urological
Research 18:213-217, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS IN BOYS
A recent study suggests that young boys who inject water into their urethra during
bathing are more likely to develop later urinary tract infection. One-third of a group of
boys evaluated for urinary tract infection admitted to this behavior, eliminating the need
for extensive evaluation.
The boys reported using syringes, rubber bulbs, plastic bottles and hand shower
massagers to inject the water into their urethras. This possibility should be considered in
young boys who develop urinary tract infections. (Pediatrics 86(5)703-706, November
1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
URINARY TRACT INFECTION/CRANBERRY JUICE
A recent study provides support for the use of cranberry juice in the treatment and
prevention of urinary tract infections. A study of over 150 elderly women showed that
those women who consumed 300 ml of cranberry juice a day were about half as likely to
develop urinary tract infection as those who did not use the juice. (Journal of the
American Medical Association 271:751-754, March 9, 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
CHILLING/URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
Women are often plagued with recurrent urinary tract infections. A study from Norway
suggests that cold hands, cold feet, and/or cold buttocks may all increase the incidence of
urinary tract infections. The authors also observed that retaining urine for long periods
because it was not convenient to go to the toilet may increase the incidence of urinary
tract infections. (Scandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care 10:72-75, 1992) Copyright
Phylis Austin
URINARY TRACT INFECTION/CONDOM USE
Condom use, particularly condoms coated with the spermicide nonoxynol-9 (N-),
increase the risk of urinary tract infections in women. The increase may be 2-3 fold.
(Journal of General Internal Medicine 9(Suppl 2)29, April 1994) ED - Urinating
immediately after marital relations reduce the likelihood of getting a urinary tract
infection. Copyright Phylis Austin
URINARY TRACT INFECTION/DIAPHRAGM/SPERMICIDE
Young women who use a diaphragm with a spermicide to prevent pregnancy are at
increased risk of urinary tract infection according to Seattle, Washington researchers. A
young woman who has sexual intercourse three times a week is at three times the risk of
urinary tract infection than a woman who is not sexually active. Risk is increased sevenfold if she used a diaphragm and spermicide. (New England Journal of Medicine
335:468-474, 1996) Copyright Phylis Austin
URINARY TRACT INFECTION/CEREBRAL PALSY
A urinary tract infection during pregnancy increases the risk of cerebral palsy in the
offspring. This study revealed that the risk of having a child with cerebral palsy was four
to five times greater if the mother suffered a urinary tract infection during the pregnancy.
(JOGNN 62:405-413, 1997) Copyright Phylis Austin
ANTIBIOTICS/URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS IN WOMEN
Women who use antibiotics for any reason are at increased risk of developing a urinary
tract infection afterward. The increased risk may persist for 15 to 28 days. The antibiotics
apparently change the normal flora, allowing pathogenic bacteria to grow. (Clinical
Infectious Diseases 25:63-68, 1997) Copyright Phylis Austin
Damage to kidney:
IBUPROFEN/KIDNEY DAMAGE
Ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin), which is sold over-the-counter without a prescription for
arthritis and pain relief, may cause damage to the kidneys. (Annals of Internal Medicine
105(2)303,304, August 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
HIGH PROTEIN INTAKE/KIDNEY FUNCTION
A high protein intake during growth and development has been shown to cause to
changes in the kidney. (Pediatric Research 29(4 Pt 2)353A, April, 1991) Copyright Phylis
Austin
Bladder cancer:
ANALGESICS/BLADDER CANCER
The risk of bladder cancer is increased in women who use pain medications containing
phenacetin on a regular basis. The authors state that acetaminophen (Tylenol) is
pharmacologically similar and the same association with it may be present. (New
England Journal of Medicine 313:292-5, 1985) Copyright Phylis Austin
SMOKING/COFFEE/BLADDER CANCER
A strong association between smoking and bladder cancer risk was demonstrated in a
West German study. Those who began smoking before 15 years of age are at greatest
risk. Coffee drinking on a regular basis also increases the risk (one cup a day increases
the risk by three times -- yes, decaffeinated also). (American Journal of Epidemiology
122(3)524, September 1985) Copyright Phylis Austin
BLADDER CANCER/COFFEE/PHENACETIN/THYROID STUDIES
A study of women aged 20 to 49 years who had developed bladder cancer revealed that
these women consumed more coffee, used more phenacetin-containing medications, and
were more likely to have undergone radioactive iodine thyroid uptake studies than had a
similar group of women who did not have bladder cancer. (American Journal of
Epidemiology 123(6)1033-1042, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
BLADDER CANCER/MOTOR EXHAUST
Men employed as deliverymen or truck drivers have been found to have a 50 percent
increased risk of developing bladder cancer. Bus and taxi drivers may also have elevated
risks. In men who have been drivers for 25 years or more years the risk may be increased
120 percent. (Cancer Research 46:2113-2116, April 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
BLADDER CANCER/ARTISTIC PAINTERS
Artistic painters have been shown in two study populations to have an increased risk of
bladder cancer. Artists may be exposed to carcinogens such as 2-naphthylamine,
polychlorinated biphenyls, benzidine, formaldehyde, asbestos, benzene, methylene
chloride and dioxane. Artists may work long hours (and even eat and sleep) in poorly
ventilated studios, increasing risk of exposure by ingestion, skin absorption, and
inhalation. Incidently, artistic painters in this study were also noted to have increased
death rates from leukemia and arteriosclerotic heart disease. (American Journal of
Industrial Medicine 9:281-287, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
IN UTERO SACCHARINE EXPOSURE/BLADDER CANCER
Infants whose mothers use saccharin during pregnancy are at increased risk of later
developing bladder cancer. Aspartame has replaced saccharin as a sweetener in gum and
tooth pastes. Saccharin is known to enhance the cancer-producing ability of other
substances. (Cancer Letters 32:151-154, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
SALT/BLADDER CANCER
Animal studies indicate that excessive use of sodium chloride (ordinary table salt)
apparently promotes cancer of the bladder. (Urological Research 14:201-206, 1986)
Copyright Phylis Austin
FLUID INTAKE/BLADDER CANCER
Bladder cancer rates appear higher in urban populations than in rural inhabitants. A study
from Israel suggests that this increased incidence of bladder cancer may be due to less
fluid intake in this population group. Because of decreased fluid intake urban populations
pass their urine less frequently, which means that urine remains in contact with the
bladder wall for longer periods of time. (Journal of the National Cancer Institute 78:437440, 1987) Copyright Phylis Austin
ASPIRIN/BLADDER CANCER
Aspirin seems to promote the development of bladder cancer in laboratory animals
according to a study done at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. (Cancer
Research 49:372-377, January 15, 1989) Copyright Phylis Austin
GARLIC/BLADDER CANCER
Garlic has been used medicinally down through history, with reports of benefit for a wide
range of diseases. Some studies have indicated that it may possess antitumor properties.
A study from the Department of Urology at West Virginia University School of Medicine
showed that laboratory mice given aged garlic extract in their drinking water before and
after being injected with tumor cells known to cause bladder cancer had slowed growth of
the tumors. Those mice who were given the highest percentage of garlic in their drinking
water had slower tumor growth than those given less garlic.
Epidemiologists predicted that about 52,900 new cases of bladder cancer would be
diagnosed in the United States in 1996, and that 11,700 people would die of it. (Cancer
79:1987094, 1997) Copyright Phylis Austin
URINE RETENTION/BLADDER CANCER
Individuals who hold their urine for prolonged periods because it is inconvenient to go to
the restroom may be increasing their risk of developing bladder cancer. This is
particularly so for smokers, whose urine contains a potent carcinogen. (Science News
140:125, August 24, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
DIET/BLADDER CANCER
The use of fried foods increases the risk of bladder cancer, while the use of fruit
decreases the risk according to a recent report from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research
Center in Seattle, Washington. (American Journal of Epidemiology 144:484-495, 1996)
Copyright Phylis Austin
Lower urinary cancer:
LOWER URINARY TRACT CANCER RISK FACTORS
The risk of lower urinary tract cancer increased with smoking, drinking four plus cups of
coffee per day, more than 1.0 liter of beer per day, fatty meals, frequent use of canned
feeds (to the exclusion of fresh foods), and employment in mining, dye, textile, plastic,
and rubber industries, as well as spray paint exposure. Regular use of vegetables and
fruits and discontinuation of smoking decreased risk. (American Journal of Epidemiology
124(4)578-589, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY/URINARY CANCER
A study of men in the electric power industry in Sweden reveals that these men are at
increased risk of developing urinary system cancers. (British Journal of Industrial
Medicine 43:212-213, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
Obesity/diet/Urological cancers
Obesity has been associated with a number of cancers, including prostate cancer.
The role of dietary fat is still being clarified, but animal fat appears to be more important
than vegetable fat.
Men on high fat diets are known to be at increased risk of renal carcinoma. Fried meats
appear to be a particular risk factor. A high protein intake may contribute to other renal
diseases, which may, in turn predispose to renal cell carcinoma. Both chlorination byproducts and dietary fat appear increase the risk of bladder cancer.
Fruits and vegetables, particularly lycopene from tomatoes, and isoflanoids such as
genistein from soybeans, reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Renal cancer risk appears to be increased by obesity, high intake of protein and fried
food, recurrent urinary tract infections and being female. (BJU International 84(3)225234, August 1999)
Urinary Incontinence:
BLADDER LEAKAGE DURING EXERCISE
Many women, especially as they age, suffer from loss of urine during exercise. Running
and high impact aerobics are particularly likely to cause leakage. A study of exerciserelated urinary incontinence suggested that women who have loss of urine can often
participate in such sports as bicycling and swimming without problem. Kegal exercises
are also helpful. A new device, called vaginal weights, are also being used to strengthen
the vaginal muscles, and control stress incontinence. These weights are inserted in the
same manner one would insert a tampon and kept in place for 20 to 30 minutes a day.
The muscles must contract to hold the weight in place, providing strengthening exercise.
(Obstetrics and Gynecology 75:848-851, May, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
URINARY STRESS INCONTINENCE/VAGINAL CONES
An exercise program using cones has been shown helpful in the treatment of urinary
stress incontinence. Pelvic floor exercises have enabled many women to avoid surgery
for stress incontinence, but many women find the exercises difficult to carry out properly.
The use of cones has been shown helpful for these women. The cones are inserted into
the vagina, and women are instructed to contract the muscles to retain the cone for 15
minutes at a time, twice a day. (Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and
Gynecology 30:157-160, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE
As women age many suffer stress urinary incontinence (the involuntary loss of urine with
activities such as sneezing, coughing or straining). Various surgical procedures have been
recommended and a wide assortment of medications have been evaluated in the control
of this distressing problem.
Eleven of twelve women had complete resolution of their stress urinary incontinence with
the use of an ordinary contraceptive diaphragm.
Because wearing a diaphragm constantly increases the risk of urinary tract infection the
researchers designed a special doughnut-like ring to permit urine to flow freely. (Urology
37(2)119-122, February 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
CROUCHING/BLADDER EMPTYING
Women who crouch over toilet seats to avoid sitting on them may be unable to
completely empty their bladder. Women who are predisposed to urinary tract infections
or to cystitis may increase their risk of disease by retaining urine for prolonged periods.
(British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 98:569-572, June 1991) Copyright Phylis
Austin
OVERWEIGHT/URINARY INCONTINENCE
Overweight women who suffer from the involuntary loss of urine will benefit from
weight reduction. A study group demonstrated less urge and stress incontinence after
weight loss. (American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 167:392-9, 1992)
Copyright Phylis Austin
UTEROVAGINAL PROLAPSE/URINARY STRESS
INCONTINENCE/CONSTIPATION
Women who have a history of constipation during young adulthood are at increased risk
of uterovaginal prolapse, and perhaps urinary stress incontinence in later life. Childbirthassociated trauma has also been identified as a risk factor, but these researchers feel that
constipation may be a more important factor. (British Journal of Obstetrics and
Gynecology 101:147-152, February, 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
SMOKING/URINARY INCONTINENCE
Women smokers are at greater risk of developing stress urinary incontinence or motor
urinary incontinence than are non-smokers. (American Journal of Obstetrics and
Gynecology 167:1213-1218, 1992) Copyright Phylis Austin
DAYTIME URINARY FREQUENCY
Mothers sometimes notice that their children have periods when they have to urinate
frequently during the day. This symptom may suggest urinary tract infection or other
urinary problem, but recently reports have appeared in the medical literature suggesting
that this may be due to inadequate water intake. A group of children evaluated for this
problem revealed a high urinary specific gravity, which indicates that the urine was not
adequately diluted. The researchers also observed a high acid urine, which the researchers
felt might be due to the intake of either apple or citrus juices. The researchers who
studied this problem successfully treat it by recommending a high water intake and the
restriction of fruit juices and milk. (Pediatrics 86(6)1004-1005, December 1990)
Copyright Phylis Austin
Prostate diseases:
Prostities:
STRESS/PROSTATITIS
Donald Rudnick, a California physician, writes that approximately 15 percent of his
patient visits are for "prostatitis." He feels that one common factor in all of these patients
is stress, and that symptoms respond best when the patient is relieved of his stress. He
also reports that most of those who suffer from prostatitis are heavy smokers, spicy food
users, and heavy caffeine users. Eliminating these foods, all known to irritate the lining of
the urinary tract, is often helpful. He feels that prostatitis is a "disease of the person and
not simply an inflammation of the prostate...." (Urology 26(3)320-321, September 1985)
Copyright Phylis Austin
HYPERTHERMIA/ABACTERIAL PROSTATITIS
Local hyperthermia to the prostate may be helpful in the relief of abacterial prostatitis
according to a study from the Institute of Urology at Tel Aviv University, Israel. The
patients in this study had failed to respond to other treatments over a course of several
years. Twenty-five percent had complete loss of their symptoms, fifty percent had partial
response, with improvement in symptoms, while the remaining twenty-five percent did
not benefit. (British Journal of Urology 67:308-311, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
Benign prostate hyperplasia:
HYPERTHERMIA/BENIGN PROSTATE DISEASE
Researchers at the University of Southern California at Los Angeles are studying the use
of heat in the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy. Similar research has been carried
on in Israel for about six years with favorable results. A specially designed instrument is
inserted for one hour at a time, twice a week for five weeks. The treatment is not painful;
men remain awake during the procedure, but some some develop irritation of the urethra.
Results thus far have been encouraging. Methodist Hospital of Indianapolis, Indiana,
plans to begin a similar treatment program. (Medical World News 28(23)20,21,
December 14, 1987) Copyright Phylis Austin
HYPERTHERMIA/BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA
Enlargement of the prostate gland is a common problem as men age. A study from Spain
revealed that local hyperthermia to the prostate improved symptoms in 76 of 100 patients.
Six or more one-hour-long treatments were found to be the most effective. (European
Urology 20:9-11, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
OVERWEIGHT/PROSTATE DISEASE
Obese men who develop symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia may benefit from
weight loss. A study of over 25,000 men revealed that those with waist measurements of
43 or more inches were at increased risk. (American Journal of Epidemiology
140(11)989-1003, 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
Prostate cancer:
DIET/FATAL PROSTATE CANCER
The use of milk, cheese, eggs and meat has been associated with the risk of fatal prostate
cancer in a new Loma Linda study. The addition of each of the animal products to the
diets of the persons studied resulted in an increased risk of prostate cancer. The same
study revealed that obesity also increases the risk. More than 6,000 persons were
followed for over 20 years to obtain the results of this study. (American Journal of
Epidemiology 120(2)244-250, 1984) Copyright Phylis Austin
PROSTATE CANCER/OBESITY/MILK/MEAT
Overweight men are again found to have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer,
according to an Italian study. Men who developed prostate cancer also reported more use
of milk and dairy products and meats than did healthy controls. Other studies have shown
similar results, as well as a relationship between total fat intake and prostate cancer.
(British Journal of Cancer 53:817-821, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
PROSTATE CANCER RISKS
Prostate cancer risk apparently increases as the years since vasectomy increase. Prostate
cancer risk is high in men who have sexual intercourse at a young age. Smoking also
increases the risk of prostate cancer. (British Journal of Cancer 57:326-331, 1988)
Copyright Phylis Austin
TRANSURETHRAL RESECTION/PROSTATE CANCER SPREAD
Transurethral resection, the most commonly used surgical procedure for enlarged
prostates, has been shown to increase the likelihood of spread of prostate cancer. Prostate
cancer is a common cancer, with rapid increase in rates after age fifty. It is the most
common single site of cancer in men over 70 years-of- age. (Cancer 62:2622-2627, 1988)
Copyright Phylis Austin
VASECTOMY/PROSTATE CANCER
Vasectomy may triple a man's risk of prostate cancer, according to a report presented at
the latest Society for Epidemiologic Research meeting. (Medical Tribune 30(22)22,
August 17, 1989) Although other studies have shown no relationship a study reported in
the British Journal of Cancer last year also reported an increased risk of prostate cancer in
vasectomized men. Copyright Phylis Austin
TOBACCO USE/PROSTATE CANCER
Men who use tobacco in any form are at increased risk of developing prostate cancer.
(American Journal of Epidemiology 133(5)437-441, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING/RISKS
Dr. Frank Hinman, Jr. of the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
observes that mass screening for prostate cancer in elderly men may have more risks than
benefits. While 2.5 percent of men die of prostate cancer, the greatest proportion of men
screened for prostate cancer may be subjected to unnecessary stress and anxiety,
expensive diagnostic testing, and unnecessary treatment. (Internal Medicine News
24(21)52, November 1-14, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
PROSTATE CANCER/VITAMIN D
It has been hypothesized that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is more common in Blacks, those in northern latitudes, and the elderly.
All of these groups are known to have lower levels of vitamin D.
Vitamin D levels are largely influenced by sunlight exposure. (Anticancer Research
10:1307-1312, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
PROSTATE CANCER/CHICKENS
De Lamar Gibbons, M.D., of Kellogg, Idaho, points out that prostate cancer is rare in the
Navahos of San Juan County, Utah. Between 1950 and 1985 there was one reported case,
and that case was in the only man known to raise chickens and eat eggs.
Dr. Gibbons points out that raw or lightly cooked eggs may contain viruses which cause
cancer. (Internal Medicine News 25(4), February 15, 1992) Copyright Phylis Austin
PROSTATE CANCER/ANIMAL PRODUCTS
A diet high in animal products, particularly milk, increases the risk of prostate cancer,
researchers from Italy report. Prostate cancer has become one of the leading causes of
cancer death in the Western world. (Nutrition and Cancer 18:277-286, 1992) Copyright
Phylis Austin
PROSTATE CANCER/SURGERY
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in U.S. males. Treatment routines vary from
one part of the country to another. The number of radical prostatectomies performed
increased nearly six times in the time period of 1984 to 1990. A study from the
Biomedical Information Communications Center of the Oregon Health Sciences
University in Portland, Oregon, suggests that many men with localized prostate cancer
may benefit from watchful waiting, rather than radical prostatectomy. They point out that
vigorous treatment may result in such unwanted effects as loss of control of the urine and
impotence, which may greatly reduce the man's quality of life. Treatment of advanced
prostate cancer may prolong life an average of only about one year. The researchers
conclude that in prostate cancer patients older than 70 years of age watchful waiting is a
reasonable alternative. (Journal of the American Medical Association 269(2)2650-2658,
May 26, 1993) Copyright Phylis Austin
DIET/PROSTATE CANCER
A study from Japan demonstrates a relationship between the use of sugar, milk, meat, fats
and oils and death from prostate cancer. (Japanese Journal of Cancer Clin 10(8)831-836,
1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
HIGH FAT DIETS/PROSTATE CANCER
High fat diets increase the level of testosterone, a male hormone. Prostate cancer is more
common in men with high testosterone levels. Men in the study group who consumed a
high- fat, low-fiber diet had testosterone levels 13 to 15 percent higher than those who
consumed a low-fat, high-fiber diet. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 64:850-5,
1996) Copyright Phylis Austin
Others:
ANTIBIOTICS/CYSTITIS
Women who call their physician for antibiotics for frequent bladder infections may be
contributing to a chronic inflammatory bladder condition. Chronic antibiotic use seems to
destroy the protective layer of the bladder, and allows urine to reach and inflame the wall
of the bladder. (Medical World News, June 9, 1986, p. 125) Copyright Phylis Austin
NASAL DECONGESTANTS/IMPOTENCE
Men who use nasal decongestants on a regular basis may suffer impotence, according to
Adrian Zorgniotti, M.D., professor of clinical urology at New York University School of
Medicine. (Modern Medicine 56:282-9, July 1988) Copyright Phylis Austin
ESTROGEN/GALLBLADDER DISEASE
Women who take estrogen are at increased risk of developing gallbladder disease
requiring gallbladder removal. A new study demonstrates that the elevated risk remains
even after the use of estrogen is discontinued. (Gastroenterology 94:91-95, 1988)
Copyright Phylis Austin
TAGAMET/IMPOTENCE/BREAST ENLARGEMENT
Cimetidine (Tagamet), a common ulcer medication, has been shown to interfere with a
male's ability to break down estradiol, a female hormone. High levels of estradiol may
cause male breast enlargement and/or impotence. It has been estimated that as many as
10 million American males suffer from impotence. (Research Resources Reporter,
January 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
ASPIRIN USE/KIDNEY DISEASE/HEART DISEASE
A recent report which claimed that the daily use of aspirin decreased the risk of heart
attack was sufficient to start many people on the program. A follow-up study
demonstrated that those who took aspirin on a daily basis were more likely to develop
kidney cancer than non-users, and revealed increased rates of ischemic heart disease in
the aspirin users. (British Medical Journal 299:1247-1250, November 18, 1989) Other
studies have shown that the apparent benefit from aspirin was not real. Copyright Phylis
Austin
GALLBLADDER REMOVAL/COLON CANCER
Removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) apparently increases the risk of colon
cancer. It is felt that changes in bile metabolism may be responsible for this increased
risk. (Cancer 66:2249-2252, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin