Effects of Electroacupuncture on Benign Prostate Hyperplasia Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Yu Jung-Sheng, Shen Kun-Hung, Chen Wen-Chi, Her Jiann-Shyan, Hsieh Ching-Liang
Primary Institution: Chi Mei Medical Center
Hypothesis
Does electroacupuncture improve lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia?
Conclusion
Electroacupuncture significantly improved voiding volume, average flow rate, and maximal flow rate in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, but the overall clinical improvement was limited.
Supporting Evidence
- Electroacupuncture improved voiding volume by 32.2 mL.
- Average flow rate increased by 1.2 mL/sec in the electroacupuncture group.
- Maximal flow rate increased by 2.3 mL/sec in the electroacupuncture group.
- Changes in prostate specific antigen levels were not significantly different between groups.
Takeaway
This study tested if a special type of acupuncture could help men with prostate problems pee better, and it found that it did help a little bit.
Methodology
A randomized controlled trial with 42 BPH patients assigned to either electroacupuncture or sham treatment, measuring changes in urinary symptoms and flow rates.
Limitations
Small sample size and potential subliminal effects from sham acupuncture.
Participant Demographics
Men with benign prostatic hyperplasia aged over 40.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = .038, .026, and .030
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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