Latest news with #urology
Arab News
a day ago
- Health
- Arab News
Songs of healing: Karachi's blind musician uplifts young patients at kidney hospital
KARACHI: In the waiting area of the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT), soft music drifted through the corridors earlier this month. Children began to gather, some sitting beside a woman at the keyboard, others nestled quietly in their parents' laps. The melodies bring calm, even joy, to an otherwise tense space filled with long waits to see doctors and the dread of the difficult treatments that follow. At the heart of this daily ritual is Zainab Imran, a 44-year-old blind singer known among staff and patients as the 'nightingale of SIUT.' For more than 20 years, she has been performing for young patients at SIUT, a leading health care facility in Karachi, highly regarded for its urology and transplantation services, particularly kidney transplants. 'If these children find happiness through my singing, then nothing is greater than that,' Imran said as she prepared for another session of singing. 'I cannot see, but I truly feel their pain, what they're going through, how hard it must be. When they smile, even briefly, it brings me deep inner peace.' Her journey with SIUT began in February 2004, when she met Javed Mir, a musician with polio who hosted children's music programs on national television. 'He used to sit with me and sing for the children. He encouraged me and taught me so much,' she recalled. During her first performance at SIUT's children's ward around two decades, Imran played national songs on a keyboard. The response was overwhelming — clapping, smiles, and laughter filled the room. But behind the joy, there was also visible pain. 'Many children were crying, they were in such pain,' she said. Her mother, who had accompanied her to the hospital, gently urged her to continue and to be strong for the children who needed her. Imran also credits the support of SIUT founder Professor Dr. Adib ul Hasan Rizvi as a defining moment. 'He placed his hand on my head and said, 'You are our daughter, and you can do anything.' That gave me strength.' Imran has since become a beloved fixture at SIUT. To her, music is not just art, it is also medicine. 'It's often said that music is food for the soul,' she said with a smile. 'If you're upset or sad, even humming a tune can help you feel better. That's exactly how I see music as well.' 'NEVER LOSE HEART' Founded in 1974 as a 12-bed ward within a public hospital, SIUT has grown into a 2000-bed hospital with multiple units. In 2024 alone, it treated 4.2 million patients, including over 600,000 outpatient visits and more than 500,000 dialysis sessions. Professor Dr. Ali Asghar Lanewala, head of the Pediatric Nephrology Department, said the facility's outpatient pediatric clinic saw 300 to 400 children on each of its four weekly working days, with families often waiting three to four hours to see a doctor. 'Her very melodious voice creates a vibrant atmosphere, and she engages the children by singing familiar songs with them,' he told Arab News. 'This way, the long three to four-hour waiting period becomes a bit easier for the children.' Imran hopes she can carry on singing for as long as life allows her. 'Never lose heart. Insha'Allah, everything will be fine,' she told the children as she started to tap the keys of her keyboard. 'Children must stay brave and strong, and keep reminding themselves, 'No, I have to get better'.'
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital highlights Men's Health Month
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) – June marks the annual National Men's Health Month. To recognize this month, HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital seeks to raise awareness for a condition that impacts millions of men: benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate. According to a news release, the hospital offers Aquablation therapy, a minimally invasive treatment that uses the power of water delivered with robotic precision to remove excess prostate tissue. This approach, which broke through in 2024, is said to be highly effective and uniquely tailored to each patient. Because of this, this therapy offers long-term symptom relief with a lower risk of complications. According to HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital, they have successfully treated dozens of patients since implementing this technology. As a commitment to men's health, the hospital is encouraging men in the community to speak with their primary care provider or a urologist, as early evaluation can make a significant difference. 'Men's Health Month is an important time to remind men to take charge of their well-being,' said Chase Christianson, CEO of HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital. 'We're proud to offer innovative solutions that not only improve health outcomes but also restore confidence and peace of mind for our patients.' For more information, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
BBC News
5 days ago
- Health
- BBC News
Sussex doctors join cross-border The Urology Foundation cycle
Two West Sussex doctors set off on an international cycling challenge in aid of urology research on Britnell and Barnaby Chappell, both consultant urologists, are aiming to cycle from London to Amsterdam by 7 June."We're proud to take on this challenge, not only to test ourselves but to support the incredible work of The Urology Foundation," Mr Chappell are cycling alongside other colleagues from the field as part of Bike4TUF 2025, a challenge raising money for the urology charity. The cycling route will take the doctors via Dunkirk, in France, and Renesse in the Netherlands - a total of over 300 miles (482km).As well as raising funds to support The Urology Foundation's research, training and education work, the challenge seeks to raise awareness of urologists' 2024 challenge saw urology professionals cycle from London to Nantes in France.
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
What a urologist wants men to know about vasectomies
EDITOR'S NOTE: Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt is a urologist and robotic surgeon with Orlando Health and an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida's College of Medicine. As a urologist, I've performed countless vasectomies. They are my profession's bread and butter. When I'm not doing the procedure, I'm seeing men either alone or with their partners to discuss its safety, simplicity and effectiveness. Like many men, I've found myself contemplating whether it's time to get one, too. Maybe it's the recent US Supreme Court decisions on reproduction prompting more men to actively consider their role in birth control. Or perhaps it's part of a larger cultural shift toward shared family-planning responsibility. Then again, as a urologist who sees a growing number of men seeking vasectomy consultations, I'm more attuned to how common this conversation has become. An estimated 500,000 men in the US choose vasectomies as a form of contraception every year. And if you are like me and considering a vasectomy — or if you're just curious about this procedure as a form of birth control — here are the top things you should know. A vasectomy is typically a minor office-based procedure that requires minimal preparation. You can eat the day of the procedure, wear your T-shirt and shorts, and try to be relaxed. (If you choose to have the vasectomy done in an operating room, more preparation may be needed.) Once you're in the doctor's office, it takes 10 to 20 minutes to perform. After numbing the scrotal skin with a local anesthetic, the urologist makes a small opening in the skin, often so small that no stitches or scalpels are needed. From there, the doctor will find the vas deferens — the tube that carries sperm (made in the testicle) from a tightly coiled duct called the epididymis to the urethra prior to ejaculation. The vas deferens feels a bit like a piece of cooked spaghetti. The tube is brought out through the small opening, cut, sealed or blocked, preventing sperm from mixing with semen. The procedure is done on both sides, on both vas deferens, in a similar fashion. The cut ends are placed back into the scrotum, and the openings may be sealed with skin glue. Then you can go home and rest. Expect some soreness in the scrotum and surrounding areas. I advise patients to rest for one or two days, wear supportive underwear, and apply an ice pack to the scrotum for about 20 minutes every hour. For pain or discomfort, I suggest taking over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about one to two weeks, or however long your doctor recommends. Post-vasectomy complications are rare but possible and include minor bruising, swelling and temporary discomfort around the area where the procedure was done. Though uncommon, infections can occur and are typically resolved quickly with antibiotics if caught early. Around 1% to 2% of men can experience chronic post-vasectomy pain, which usually improves over time but in rare cases may persist and require further treatment. An important point to remember is that you won't be sterile immediately. It typically takes several weeks — and around 30 ejaculations — to clear out your remaining sperm. Your urologist will confirm your sterility with a semen analysis, which can be done at a lab or using new at-home testing kits. Until you're officially cleared, though, continue to use another form of contraception — it takes only one sperm to achieve pregnancy, so making sure you are sterile is vital. I've heard all the myths about vasectomies, so I want to share the answers to some of the most common questions men ask me during our consultations. Many men worry that after a vasectomy they will have lower testosterone levels, sex drive or sexual function. Not true. In fact, many couples report increased sexual activity and satisfaction after a vasectomy since they no longer have to worry about pregnancy. You will still have an ejaculate — almost the same volume and sensation — but now you'll be 'shooting blanks,' since your semen no longer contains sperm. Despite what you've heard, March Madness isn't the only good time for a vasectomy. Many men choose to recover while binge-watching football or even their favorite show. The truth is, you can safely book the procedure whenever it fits your schedule. Some men assume vasectomies are expensive or not covered by insurance, but most insurance plans fully or partially cover the procedure. Even if you're paying out-of-pocket, the cost is often less than $1,000, though prices can range from $500 to $3,000 depending on your location and whether you opt for anesthesia. It's worth shopping around, but always choose a qualified urologist who is board-certified and experienced in performing vasectomies — your safety is never worth compromising just to save a few dollars. But let's face it: Compared with the monthly cost of diapers alone (about $100 per month until your child is potty-trained), a vasectomy is a financial win. Though it's less common, I'm seeing more men without children choosing to get a vasectomy. Why? Often it's a firm lifestyle decision, because of concerns over passing certain genetic conditions, or simply being absolutely sure that fatherhood is not in their future. During our consultation, we openly discuss the motivations for making this decision, and I review the pros and cons. One big con is the permanent nature of the procedure. Yes, vasectomy reversals exist — and I do them myself for patients — but I don't advise undergoing a vasectomy assuming it's temporary. Reversal procedures are expensive and not always successful. If you're not sure whether you want children, pause and seriously reconsider the decision. Ultimately, it remains your personal choice. Men who need birth control can use condoms or avoid sex altogether. There is also research on male birth-control pills, injections and 'switches,' which could be a long time away from being offered to men. For women, there are birth-control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, injections, patches, vaginal rings and tubal ligation. Each of these methods has its own pros, cons and effectiveness rates, so a detailed discussion with your health care provider and partner can help you make the best choice. Deciding on a vasectomy isn't easy. I should know, because I'm right there with you. My advice is don't rush it. Talk with your partner, ask your doctor all the questions you have during your consultation and think through what this means for your future. Whatever decision you make, though, make sure it feels right for you. Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple. Sign up for CNN's Life, But Better newsletter for information and tools designed to improve your well-being.
CNN
01-06-2025
- Health
- CNN
What a urologist wants men to know about vasectomies
As a urologist, I've performed countless vasectomies. They are my profession's bread and butter. When I'm not doing the procedure, I'm seeing men either alone or with their partners to discuss its safety, simplicity and effectiveness. Like many men, I've found myself contemplating whether it's time to get one, too. Maybe it's the recent US Supreme Court decisions on reproduction prompting more men to actively consider their role in birth control. Or perhaps it's part of a larger cultural shift toward shared family-planning responsibility. Then again, as a urologist who sees a growing number of men seeking vasectomy consultations, I'm more attuned to how common this conversation has become. An estimated 500,000 men in the US choose vasectomies as a form of contraception every year. And if you are like me and considering a vasectomy — or if you're just curious about this procedure as a form of birth control — here are the top things you should know. A vasectomy is typically a minor office-based procedure that requires minimal preparation. You can eat the day of the procedure, wear your T-shirt and shorts, and try to be relaxed. (If you choose to have the vasectomy done in an operating room, more preparation may be needed.) Once you're in the doctor's office, it takes 10 to 20 minutes to perform. After numbing the scrotal skin with a local anesthetic, the urologist makes a small opening in the skin, often so small that no stitches or scalpels are needed. From there, the doctor will find the vas deferens — the tube that carries sperm (made in the testicle) from a tightly coiled duct called the epididymis to the urethra prior to ejaculation. The vas deferens feels a bit like a piece of cooked spaghetti. The tube is brought out through the small opening, cut, sealed or blocked, preventing sperm from mixing with semen. The procedure is done on both sides, on both vas deferens, in a similar fashion. The cut ends are placed back into the scrotum, and the openings may be sealed with skin glue. Then you can go home and rest. Expect some soreness in the scrotum and surrounding areas. I advise patients to rest for one or two days, wear supportive underwear, and apply an ice pack to the scrotum for about 20 minutes every hour. For pain or discomfort, I suggest taking over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about one to two weeks, or however long your doctor recommends. Post-vasectomy complications are rare but possible and include minor bruising, swelling and temporary discomfort around the area where the procedure was done. Though uncommon, infections can occur and are typically resolved quickly with antibiotics if caught early. Around 1% to 2% of men can experience chronic post-vasectomy pain, which usually improves over time but in rare cases may persist and require further treatment. An important point to remember is that you won't be sterile immediately. It typically takes several weeks — and around 30 ejaculations — to clear out your remaining sperm. Your urologist will confirm your sterility with a semen analysis, which can be done at a lab or using new at-home testing kits. Until you're officially cleared, though, continue to use another form of contraception — it takes only one sperm to achieve pregnancy, so making sure you are sterile is vital. I've heard all the myths about vasectomies, so I want to share the answers to some of the most common questions men ask me during our consultations. Many men worry that after a vasectomy they will have lower testosterone levels, sex drive or sexual function. Not true. In fact, many couples report increased sexual activity and satisfaction after a vasectomy since they no longer have to worry about pregnancy. You will still have an ejaculate — almost the same volume and sensation — but now you'll be 'shooting blanks,' since your semen no longer contains sperm. Despite what you've heard, March Madness isn't the only good time for a vasectomy. Many men choose to recover while binge-watching football or even their favorite show. The truth is, you can safely book the procedure whenever it fits your schedule. Some men assume vasectomies are expensive or not covered by insurance, but most insurance plans fully or partially cover the procedure. Even if you're paying out-of-pocket, the cost is often less than $1,000, though prices can range from $500 to $3,000 depending on your location and whether you opt for anesthesia. It's worth shopping around, but always choose a qualified urologist who is board-certified and experienced in performing vasectomies — your safety is never worth compromising just to save a few dollars. But let's face it: Compared with the monthly cost of diapers alone (about $100 per month until your child is potty-trained), a vasectomy is a financial win. Though it's less common, I'm seeing more men without children choosing to get a vasectomy. Why? Often it's a firm lifestyle decision, because of concerns over passing certain genetic conditions, or simply being absolutely sure that fatherhood is not in their future. During our consultation, we openly discuss the motivations for making this decision, and I review the pros and cons. One big con is the permanent nature of the procedure. Yes, vasectomy reversals exist — and I do them myself for patients — but I don't advise undergoing a vasectomy assuming it's temporary. Reversal procedures are expensive and not always successful. If you're not sure whether you want children, pause and seriously reconsider the decision. Ultimately, it remains your personal choice. Men who need birth control can use condoms or avoid sex altogether. There is also research on male birth-control pills, injections and 'switches,' which could be a long time away from being offered to men. For women, there are birth-control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, injections, patches, vaginal rings and tubal ligation. Each of these methods has its own pros, cons and effectiveness rates, so a detailed discussion with your health care provider and partner can help you make the best choice. Deciding on a vasectomy isn't easy. I should know, because I'm right there with you. My advice is don't rush it. Talk with your partner, ask your doctor all the questions you have during your consultation and think through what this means for your future. Whatever decision you make, though, make sure it feels right for you. Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple. Sign up for CNN's Life, But Better newsletter for information and tools designed to improve your well-being.
