Prostate Artery Embolization

P-EASY ADVANCE paper awarded with the BJUI Global Prize for 2026

The Wesley Hospital’s very own Intervention Radiologist Dr Nicholas Brown from I-Med has been awarded the British Journal of Urology’s International Global Prize for 2026 with his paper on Prostate Artery Embolization. This is an article to compare Prostate Artery Embolization to the combination of Tamsulosin and Dutasteride therapy as a potential first-line therapy for obstructive benign prostate hypertrophy.

Conclusion show that prostate artery embolization was more effective than combined medical therapy at reducing urinary obstruction and decreasing prostate volume and improving lower urinary tract symptoms in men with BPH that have not previously been treated.

Well done Nick!

PAE BJU article

How a Urologist Brisbane Helps Improve Quality of Life

Urological conditions don’t just affect your health—they can impact your comfort, confidence, and daily routine. Consulting a urologist Brisbane can significantly improve your quality of life through proper diagnosis and treatment.

Conditions like urinary incontinence can be frustrating and limiting. A urologist Brisbane can offer solutions that restore control and confidence, allowing you to return to normal activities.

For men, issues such as prostate enlargement or erectile dysfunction can affect both physical and emotional wellbeing. A urologist Brisbane provides professional, discreet care to manage these concerns effectively.

Kidney stones are another condition that can severely impact daily life due to intense pain. With modern treatment options, a urologist Brisbane can help remove or manage stones with minimal disruption.

Even ongoing urinary discomfort or frequent infections can reduce quality of life over time. Seeking help ensures these issues are properly treated rather than temporarily managed.

Getting the right care from a urologist Brisbane is not just about treating symptoms—it’s about improving overall wellbeing and helping you feel comfortable and confident again.

Early Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore.

Many urological conditions develop gradually, which is why early signs are often overlooked. Paying attention to your body can help you seek help from a urologist Brisbane before problems become serious.

One key warning sign is changes in urination patterns. This includes going more frequently, especially at night, or feeling like your bladder isn’t fully empty. These symptoms may point to bladder or prostate issues that a urologist Brisbane can properly assess.

Pain or burning during urination is another common indicator. While it may be a simple infection, ongoing discomfort should never be ignored. A urologist Brisbane can identify the cause and prevent it from worsening.

Blood in urine, even if it appears only once, is a serious symptom that requires immediate attention. It can be linked to infections, kidney stones, or more serious conditions.

Lower abdominal, pelvic, or back pain can also be related to the urinary system. Persistent discomfort is a clear sign that it’s time to consult a urologist Brisbane.

Recognising these early warning signs and acting quickly can help you avoid complications and ensure better long-term health.

Understanding Benign Prostate Enlargement: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPE), also called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition affecting men over 50. While it’s not cancerous, it can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms that affect daily life.

If you’re in Brisbane, consulting a urologist early can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.


What is Benign Prostate Enlargement?

BPE happens when the prostate gland gradually enlarges, putting pressure on the urethra and bladder. This can lead to symptoms such as:

  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Difficulty starting or stopping urination
  • Weak urine flow
  • Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

While BPE is not cancer, the symptoms can be similar to other prostate conditions, so professional evaluation is essential.


Causes of BPE

The exact cause of BPE is not fully understood, but factors may include:

  • Age – common after 50
  • Hormonal changes – shifts in testosterone and other hormones
  • Family history – genetics can play a role
  • Lifestyle factors like diet, weight, and activity levels

Treatment Options

1. Lifestyle Changes

  • Reduce caffeine and alcohol
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Practice bladder training exercises

2. Medications

  • Alpha-blockers relax prostate muscles
  • 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can shrink the prostate

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Urologists in Brisbane may recommend procedures if medications don’t work
  • Options include laser therapy, microwave therapy, or surgical removal

When to See a Urologist

If urinary symptoms are affecting your life, or you notice blood in urine or sudden difficulty urinating, consult a specialist in Brisbane. Early intervention improves outcomes and quality of life.

How Diet & Lifestyle Can Support Prostate Health

Prostate health is an important concern for men, especially after the age of 40. While regular check-ups and screenings with a urologist in Brisbane are crucial, lifestyle and diet choices can also play a major role in supporting prostate wellbeing.


Why Prostate Health Matters

The prostate is a small gland that affects urinary and reproductive function. Over time, it can be affected by ageing, inflammation, or other medical conditions. While medical care is essential, healthy habits can help reduce symptoms, support normal function, and improve overall quality of life.


Prostate-Friendly Foods 🥦

Certain foods contain nutrients that are particularly beneficial for the prostate:

  • Tomatoes – Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to prostate support
  • Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower) – Help reduce inflammation
  • Fatty fish (salmon, sardines) – High in omega-3 fatty acids for overall health
  • Green tea – Loaded with antioxidants to promote healthy cells
  • Chia seeds & flaxseeds – Contain healthy fats and fibre

Incorporating these foods into your daily diet can support long-term prostate health.


Lifestyle Habits That Help

  • Stay Active – Exercise improves hormone balance and metabolism
  • Stay Hydrated – Proper water intake supports urinary health
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight – Obesity can increase risk factors for prostate issues
  • Limit Processed Foods – Reducing processed meats and sugar helps overall wellbeing

Even small, consistent changes can make a big difference over time.


Combine Lifestyle With Regular Check-Ups

Diet and lifestyle are important, but they don’t replace medical care. Regular consultations with a urologist in Brisbane help detect problems early, including benign prostate enlargement or prostate cancer, when they are easier to treat.


Take Control of Your Prostate Health

Focusing on a prostate-friendly diet and active lifestyle empowers you to take control of your health. Combined with regular check-ups, these steps give you the best chance of maintaining a healthy prostate and preventing complications later in life.

Focal Therapy for prostate cancer: Which one?

FOCAL THERAPY for Prostate cancer: New trending therapies for prostate are coming more to the forefront. There are also the established options available. Men don’t want to lose their prostates, especially not with the accompanying risks of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction that can occur with mainstream therapy. There are alternatives for selected cases. These options are unfortunately not covered by your Health Fund or Medicare yet. Processes are in place to achieve this. Attached is a synopsis of the latest 2 trending therapies in QLD.

DOCTOR Prostate Cancer Focal Therapy

 

REZUM therapy: Therapy for younger men with bladder outflow obstruction, preserving sexual function

Rezum Therapy for bladder outlet obstruction in younger men. Preserving sexual function.

DOCTOR article Rezum

Posted by your Brisbane Urologist

Urinary Incontinence: Advanced therapies

Let’s BEAT-the-LEAK!

 

Awareness of advanced therapies for the overactive bladder may be of great value to you.

DOCTOR BPH awareness article Urinary Incontinence

Prostate Enlargement: What Men Should Know

Prostate enlargement, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects many men as they get older. The Prostate gland is a small gland located below the bladder and around the urethra. Its main role is to produce fluid that helps nourish and transport sperm.

As men age, the prostate can gradually become larger. When this happens, it may press against the urethra and make it harder for urine to pass through.

Common Symptoms

Men with prostate enlargement may experience:

  • Frequent urination, especially at night

  • Difficulty starting urination

  • Weak or slow urine stream

  • Feeling that the bladder is not completely empty

  • Sudden urge to urinate

These symptoms can affect daily life and sleep, so it is important to consult a doctor if they persist.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of prostate enlargement is not fully understood, but several factors may increase the risk:

  • Aging (most common in men over 50)

  • Hormonal changes

  • Family history

  • Certain lifestyle factors

Diagnosis

Doctors, often urologists, may use several methods to diagnose prostate enlargement, such as:

  • Physical examination

  • Urine tests

  • Blood tests

  • Ultrasound or other imaging tests

These tests help determine the size of the prostate and rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Some men with mild symptoms may only need regular monitoring. Other treatment options include:

  • Medications to relax the prostate muscles or shrink the gland

  • Lifestyle changes, such as reducing caffeine and alcohol

  • Minimally invasive procedures

  • Surgery in severe cases

Final Thoughts

Prostate enlargement is a common part of aging for many men, but it should not be ignored. With proper medical care and early diagnosis, most men can manage their symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life.