Published in PLOS One on 2026-01-22, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. HealthSignal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Daniel Senanu Dadee-Seshie, Sedem Godson Agbeteti, Banabas Kpankyaano, Aishah Fadila Adamu, Selase Kofi Adanu, Yakubu Alhassan, Maxwell Ayindenaba Dalaba, Kekeli Kodjo Adanu, Xiuping Yu
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0341280
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition among ageing men, characterized by lower urinary tract symptoms that significantly impact the quality of life and economic productivity of affected individuals. The financial burden of BPH extends beyond direct medical expenses to include direct non-medical costs and productivity losses. In Ghana, limited data exist on the cost implications of BPH, leaving a critical gap in healthcare planning and resource allocation. We aimed to determine the cost and productivity losses associated with diagnosing and managing BPH at the Ho Teaching Hospital. A cross-sectional cost-of-illness study was conducted at the Urology Unit of the Ho Teaching Hospital. Data was collected from 105 patients diagnosed with BPH using structured questionnaires from 11th June 2024–30th September 2024. Direct monthly medical costs, including consultation, diagnostics, medication, and surgical interventions, were calculated using a bottom-up approach. Direct monthly non-medical costs covered transportation, food, lodging, and caregiver expenses, while productivity losses were estimated based on absenteeism and reduced working hours, using the human capital approach. The mean monthly direct medical cost per patient was GHS 890.11 (USD 60.35), with surgeries accounting for 30% of total expenses. The total direct non-medical costs, dominated by transportation (66.3%), amounted to GHS 9,842.00 (USD 667.25). Productivity losses due to absenteeism and caregiving responsibilities totalled GHS 4,746.28 (USD 321.78), with 30% of employed patients missing work. Notably, direct medical costs contributed the highest economic burden (86.5%), surpassing direct non-medical costs (9.1%) and productivity losses (4.4%). BPH imposes a significant financial burden on patients and households in Ghana, driven by high out-of-pocket medical costs, non-medical expenses, and lost productivity. The findings underscore the need for cost-effective treatment strategies, improved health insurance coverage, and targeted interventions to alleviate financial hardships associated with BPH management.
Introduction
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition affecting elderly and middle-aged men, characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland, which can lead to urinary symptoms [1]. The severity and combination of the symptoms can vary across individuals. Common symptoms include urinary frequency, nocturia, hesitancy, and poor urinary stream. BPH affects millions of men worldwide and presents a significant public health concern [2]. The global prevalence of BPH varies significantly across different regions and populations. Studies indicate that approximately 26.2% of men will experience BPH in their lifetime, with prevalence rates increasing with age [3]; and in Africa, prevalence rates ranging from 6.1% to 33.4% have been reported [4]. A study conducted in Ghana observed that 48.5% of participants aged 40 years and above had BPH, indicating a significant presence of the disease in the Ghanaian population [5]. Coupled with the high disease burden are the productivity losses and the cost implications of the disease.
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider financing & policy desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Daniel Senanu Dadee-Seshie, Sedem Godson Agbeteti, Banabas Kpankyaano, Aishah Fadila Adamu, Selase Kofi Adanu, Yakubu Alhassan, Maxwell Ayindenaba Dalaba, Kekeli Kodjo Adanu, Xiuping Yu. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by HealthSignal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of HealthSignal’s staff.
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