The impact of nine sweeps on preventing prostate cancer and benign prostate hyperplasia

Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), often known as prostate gland enlargement, is a common disorder in elderly men. The nine sweeps or Istibra, a traditional Islamic habit, has been hypothesized to decrease the risk of prostate diseases. This study aims to investigate the potential preventive effects of Istibra on prostate cancer and BPH among individuals with a positive family history. It is a retrospective cohort study conducted among 215 high-risk people for prostate cancer with positive family history who have been on regular habits of using the nine sweeps (Istibra) for 20 years or more. The data was collected retrospectively and full history was taken from each of the patients. Odds ratios were calculated to evaluate the relationship between Istibra usage and prostate pathologies. The majority of participants had no chronic diseases or exposure to known carcinogens. Most individuals performed Istibra 5–10 times per day for 20 years or more. Despite positive family histories, 82% and 85% of participants were not diagnosed with BPH or prostate cancer, respectively. Istibra may be effective in preventing BPH and prostate cancer among individuals with positive family histories. Further studies with larger samples are warranted to confirm these findings and elucidate the mechanism of action.