Prostate health in focus as BPH drug demand rises in Gujarat
According to data from Pharmarack, the moving annual total (MAT) for BPH drugs was Rs 55.24 crore in June 2021, which rose to Rs 93.93 crore in June this year.
The MAT for the overall urology segment also saw a 42% increase, from Rs 115.22 crore to Rs 164.2 crore during the same period.
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"BPH affects a significant portion of men aged 50 and above, causing urinary difficulties and impacting quality of life. While the condition has always existed, the sharp rise in diagnosed cases and medical interventions reflects broader trends," said a pharmaceutical distributor who requested anonymity.
Industry sources said that pharma companies have improved drug delivery through fixed-dose combinations, leading to better patient compliance and outcomes. The most common prescriptions now include alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, which help alleviate symptoms and slow further prostate growth, Pharmarack data indicated.
According to urologists in Ahmedabad, men are increasingly addressing symptoms of an enlarged prostate rather than ignoring them.
The stigma around men's urological health is gradually diminishing, especially in urban and semi-urban areas.
Dr Rohit Bhattar, a uro-onco surgeon at a city-based private hospital, said, "There has been a significant rise in BPH cases over the past decade. While traditionally considered a disease of old age, we are now seeing some patients even under the age of 50, often due to other health conditions and lifestyle factors.
Greater awareness today also plays a role compared to a decade ago."
While metros and Tier-I cities initially drove demand for BPH drugs, pharmaceutical industry sources report that Tier-II cities and rural areas are now seeing growing traction.
Dr Hemang Bakshi, another uro-onco surgeon, noted, "The rise in drug sales must be viewed in the context of increased life expectancy. Medications are often prescribed to maintain or enhance prostate function over time.
Since onset typically occurs around the age of 60, patients may remain on treatment for several years. This extended treatment duration is a contributing factor. We've certainly seen a decadal rise in the incidence of the condition.
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Experts say improvements in healthcare access and preventive diagnostics in Gujarat have made a noticeable impact. Routine check-ups, ultrasounds, and PSA tests are increasingly being used to detect prostate issues at earlier stages.
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