Comparative Trends in the Treatment of Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in South Korea and the United States of America (USA) Based on Korean National Health Insurance Data.

Abstract

Purpose: With increasing life expectancy worldwide, many patients experience non-life-threatening yet debilitating conditions that affect their quality of life. Among these, lower urinary tract symptoms, a representative urologic disease in men, continue to affect a significant number of aging males in the era of population aging. South Korea and the United States have distinct healthcare systems with notable advantages and limitations. This article aimed to analyze current treatment trends in South Korea using the National Health Insurance Database and compare them with United States trends through literature reviews.

Materials and methods: We obtained statistical medical data using the Korean Healthcare Big Data Opening System provided by the Korea Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service. Data were collected across four categories: medical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), surgical treatment for BPH, overactive bladder (OAB), and nocturia. The collected data were analyzed based on annual patient cases, medical expenses, age distribution, and prescribed medications.

Results: Medical expenses for BPH surged significantly from $165 million in 2019 to $266 million in 2023. Although medication prescriptions followed a similar upward trend, the increase in surgical procedures was relatively modest. For OAB, medical costs have also shown a sharp rise, from $40 million in 2019 to $59 million in 2023, with a proportional increase in prescription volume. Regarding nocturia, anticholinergics (32.7%) and alpha-blockers (31.3%) were the most frequently prescribed medications, whereas desmopressin accounted for 19.9%.

Conclusions: It is essential to acknowledge the treatment disparities arising from differences in the healthcare systems of the United States and Korea and to adopt a patient-centered approach that prioritizes health in various contexts. A gradual transition toward developing a patient-centered and progressive healthcare system is imperative globally to address these disparities.