In a recent episode of Research and Innovation Agenda, Professor George Awuku Asare, a key figure in the field of Chemical Pathology and a prominent researcher at the University of Ghana, shared novel discoveries into the use of phytomedicines for managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
The BPH condition which is characterised by an enlargement of the prostate gland, affects a significant percentage of older men, with prevalence rates as high as 80-90% among men over 70 years.
The challenge of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia BPH poses a pressing health concern globally, with approximately 62.5% of Ghanaian men over 50years affected. Symptoms can severely impact quality of life, leading to frequent urination, straining, and discomfort. Professor Asare emphasised the importance of addressing these symptoms not only from a medical standpoint but also as a public health issue tied to sanitation and societal well-being.
Phytomedicines: A safer alternative
There is a current global shift towards the use of phytomedicines because they are perceived to be readily available. Also, despite the availability of orthodox medications (allopathic medicines), many patients prefer phytomedicinal solutions. Professor Asare highlighted that these orthodox medications often come with undesirable side effects, including erectile dysfunction, which discourages men from seeking help. This cultural stigma, combined with misconceptions about health issues affecting the prostate, often leads men to avoid discussing their conditions. Some Phytomedicines for BPH that have gained prominence are Serenoa repens, Pygeum africanum and Croton membranaceus. Whereas Serenoa repens is largely available in America and Pygeum africanum in the Cameroon region, Croton membranaceus is largely available in the Eastern Region of Ghana.
Professor Asare is leading a multidisciplinary team of 11 researchers whose research focuses on Croton membranaceus, a plant traditionally used in Ghanaian medicine. The team has conducted extensive studies on this plant, demonstrating its potent efficacy in reducing prostate size and improving quality of life for BPH patients. In clinical trials, Croton membranaceus showed significant improvements in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and prostate volume within just three months, without negatively impacting sexual function.
The research journey
The journey of validating Croton membranaceus as a treatment for BPH began in 2009. With the support of the Research and Innovation Directorate at the University of Ghana, Professor Asare and his team embarked on rigorous scientific investigations, including toxicity studies and human trials. Their findings have been pivotal, as they represent one of the first comprehensive scientific validations of an African traditional medicine, positioning Ghana at the forefront of phytomedicine research.
Prof Asare explained that the research journey was necessary to move from anecdotal evidence to empirical research findings.
“Our goal is to ensure that these plants are not just used traditionally but are backed by scientific proof of their efficacy and safety,” Prof Asare said.
Bridging tradition and modern science
The interview also touched on the broader implications of this research for African traditional medicine. Professor Asare argued that Africa is rich in medicinal plants that hold potential for global markets. He however emphasised the need for interdisciplinary collaboration among scientists, traditional medicine practitioners, and regulatory bodies to harness this potential effectively.
As remarked by the host of the interview, Dr. (Alhaji) Abubakari Sidick Ahmed,
“The future of medicine may not lie in distant labs or foreign pharmacists alone. It may already be growing in our own backyards, awaiting validation, respect, and rediscovery.”
The synergy of multidisciplinary teams is key to unlocking the potential of our natural resources. By validating the country’s traditional medicines through rigorous scientific research, Ghana can improve health outcomes not just locally but globally.
Call to action
As the discussion concluded, Professor Asare called for a national dialogue on health and sanitation issues, particularly regarding BPH and its societal impacts. He called for increased funding and support for research initiatives in Ghana, emphasising that a collective effort could lead to significant advancements in public health.
The conversation shed light on the transformative potential of phytomedicines in addressing pressing health challenges while fostering a renewed appreciation for Africa’s rich medicinal heritage. As research continues to unfold, the hope remains that such initiatives will pave the way for innovative solutions that resonate with both local and global health needs.
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Story by Barbara Balangtaa | univers.ug.edu.gh
