Every year millions of men across India are diagnosed with conditions like prostate enlargement, prostate cancer, hypertension-linked kidney damage, and chronic kidney disease. Yet, open discussion around men’s health continues to be overlooked in everyday conversations.
National surveys suggest that chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 10% to 13% of Indian adults, with clusters of higher prevalence reported in several states. Although, a district-level quantified data has not been formally documented for Kodagu (Coorg) district, healthcare professionals warn that the silent nature of these disorders demands urgent attention before symptoms become severe or irreversible.
On 21st January, 2026, Manipal Hospital Mysore brought these concerns to the fore with a press briefing at the Press Club, Madikeri, focusing on prostate and kidney health among men, particularly as lifestyles and life expectancy change.
The event was presided over by Dr. Thimmaiah K A, Consultant – Urology and Andrology & Kidney Transplant Surgeon, and Dr. Vipin Kaverappa P T, Consultant – Nephrologist & Kidney Transplant Physician, both from Manipal Hospital Mysore.
Dr. Thimmaiah highlighted that benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an age-related enlargement of the prostate, is commonly reported in men over 50. “Many men dismiss symptoms such as frequent urination, weak stream, or nocturnal bathroom visits as “normal ageing,” only to delay diagnosis,” he stated. Stressing on the rising incidence of prostate cancer, where age, family history, lifestyle choices, and diet play key roles, he said, “Men above 45 years and above, and those with a family history, should prioritise regular PSA tests and clinical evaluations. Early detection translates into highly effective treatment outcomes”.
Sharing extensive insights on kidney health Dr. Vipin Kaverappa, pointed out that conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are silently driving kidney damage, sometimes progressing until irreversible loss of function. “Blood pressure, blood sugar and kidney function tests should not be postponed-especially for men above 40 or those with risk factors. Small changes such as lowering salt intake, staying hydrated, reducing self-medication with painkillers, and seeking regular check-ups can protect kidney health,” he stated.
Speaking on the treatment options for long standing and end-stage kidney diseases, Dr. Vipin Kaverappa said “Kidney transplantation remains the best long-term solution for advanced kidney failure, offering improved quality of life compared to prolonged dialysis”. He stressed the need for early referral to transplant centres and greater family awareness of living donor transplantation, especially with modern surgical advances.
The press briefing concluded with a simple but powerful takeaway: early detection saves lives. Men in the Madikeri and Coorg region are encouraged to priorities regular health screenings, understand their personal risk factors, and embrace proactive health care not as an option but as a priority.
