A Parsemus Foundation-sponsored study has identified a non-invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia in dogs. The study was led by Dr. Raffaella Leoci, and the treatment being tested provided highly effective in reducing the prostate gland size of dogs. This may prove relevant to humans as well.

Benign prostate hyperplasia is condition wherein the prostate gland increases in size due to age. It is a frequent in elderly males, both humans and dogs. Recent studies have suggested that the blood supply impairment to the lower urinary tract, which also happens due to age, may be associated with benign prostate hyperplasia.

The new method for dogs with the prostate condition involves pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF), a non-invasive method used in urology, neurology and orthopedics, that improves blood circulation and healing and has an anti-inflammatory effect.

A total of 20 dogs with benign prostate hyperplasia were involved in the study. They received the treatment for five minutes, two times a day for three weeks. On analysis, it was found that prostate size reduced an average 57% in just three weeks. Libido, testosterone levels and semen quality were not affected. This efficacy with minimal side effects for dogs indicates strong potential for treatment in humans as well.

The mechanism of this treatment is not yet known, but it may be linked to inflammation reduction or an effective on nitric oxide synthesis. Next, a clinical trial may help assess the potential of this treatment for humans, but Parsemus Foundation cannot fund the human trial itself.