Preface
I consider myself fortunate & privileged to be able to serve in the field of Urology globally. Perhaps my roots in the East and the growth in the West made it easier for me. Medicine & science has no boundaries neither has knowledge sharing or caring for those in need. This special issue of the TAU was championed by Dr. Tom Lue, a scientist extraordinaire, but more importantly a role model for a global urologist. The topics were put together with my co-editor Dr. Sakti Das, whose motto is “I serve, therefore I am”, which says it all.
The authors are well recognized in their region, have special interest or have previously published in this field. Some of these conditions are seen infrequently in the west whereas the recent advances in the field from the West have yet to find their use in the East. This is an attempt to bridge that gap through a focused issue on male health. The war in the middle-East has created a need for reconstruction in the field of urology as the genital trauma was a prominent feature in the wounded warriors. Regenerative medicine competes with transplant to fill this void, as do the Eastern aphrodisiacs with new pharmacological advances for male sexual dysfunction. Testosterone replacement has seen its ups and downs, the current dilemma and its global use are highlighted. Genital mutilation can leave scars for life whereas a simple procedure like circumcision can have a profound bearing on a disease locally. Regional influences have bearing on conditions such as penile fracture, as well as, on managing erectile dysfunction.
Genital pain is not restricted to a region of the world and many urologists feel helpless in providing a solution to their patients. The algorithm presented can be of value to many. Voiding dysfunction in complex cases is managed differently since the availability of Botox; however old diseases such as genitourinary tuberculosis still plague certain regions.
To be involved globally, join one of the groups listed, to serve, learn and make friends just as Sakti & I have been fortunate to do.
