Dramatically deteriorated quality of life in men with prostatitis-like symptoms

Background Despite widespread occurrence and poor comprehension, prostatitis has been largely under-researched. Objective To compare complaints, general and sexual health, co-morbidities, risk factors, and lifestyle in men with and without prostatitis-like symptoms (PLS). Material and methods The cross-sectional study included 20- to 59-year-old male residents of Estonia. Questionnaire data of 82 men with PLS and of 711 men without PLS were compared. Results and discussion A third of men with PLS considered their health poor, with more frequently diagnosed renal diseases, benign prostate hyperplasia, STDs, chronic nervous system diseases, and depression in them than in controls. They reported more cystitis and gynecological inflammations in their partners, and more prostatitis in their close relatives. This familial predisposition indicates possible genetic and immunologic background of PLS that may be associated also with susceptibility to respiratory tract infections revealed for the first time in our study. By the personality type, the men in the PLS group were less calm but more worrying. Hard drinks, antidepressants, sedative, and sleeping pills were more frequently consumed, and nightshift working and continuous stress were more commonly seen among men with than without PLS. PLS disturbed the sexual life as well as everyday activities. Conclusions The men with PLS are characterized by remarkable complex of co-morbidities, habits, and attitudes. PLS possess substantial negative impact on quality of life. Successful work-up of these patients needs multidimensional treatment modalities that take into consideration major factors of syndrome. Genetic factors and central nervous system imbalance but also partner's genital tract microbiota as the potential contributing and/or perpetuating factors to PLS need more scientific attention.