Since I am not just involved but deeply involved, I will certainly say no that zinc deficiency alone does not cause prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), but it can be a contributing factor. Prostatic hyperplasia, particularly benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is influenced by a combination of factors such as aging, hormonal changes (especially involving testosterone and dihydrotestosterone), genetics, and lifestyle.
Zinc plays a role in prostate health, and low levels of zinc in prostate tissue have been associated with an increased risk of prostate disorders, including BPH and prostate cancer. Zinc has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help regulate prostate cell growth. However, while zinc deficiency might contribute to prostate problems, it is not the sole cause of prostatic hyperplasia.
Other risk factors, like hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and age-related changes, are also significant contributors. Maintaining adequate zinc levels, through diet or supplementation, may support prostate health, but managing BPH typically requires a more comprehensive approach that addresses these multiple factors.
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My dearest brother, Good evening.
All sorts of herbal therapeutic remedies are out for BHP. The question is how many of them went through thorough empirical research based on hard facts. Moreover, peer reviews are imperative to substantiate the research findings.
There may be good arguments and some credible information out there, but more serious work must be done.
If we as a nation engage our thoughts and ideas on finding herbal remedies for this key issue, especially for the black race, a remarkable improvement can be achieved. Besides, the economic benefits will be enormous as well.
As always, Nigerians lack both the financial and human resources necessary to undertake comparative studies on herbal remedies: for several ailments that affect the human race.
Dearest Dr. Okpanum,
Your point is well taken. While there are many herbal remedies for BPH, the lack of empirical research and peer-reviewed studies undermines their credibility. Without proper validation, even credible treatments remain anecdotal. Serious work is needed to standardize and substantiate herbal medicine, especially for issues like BPH that affect the black race.
The real question is: why hasn’t the Nigerian government established a national herbal college and regulatory body? The absence of such institutions allows the pharmaceutical industry to discredit the potential of herbalism, maintaining confusion in the field.
To address this gap, I am working on establishing the Global Herbatech Center in the U.S., a hub where clinical herbal researchers can collaborate annually. This center will aim to unify the field of herbal medicine, advancing credible research and bringing herbalism to the forefront of global healthcare.