Prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects older men.
The prostate
The prostate is a small gland found only in men. It is located in the pelvis, between the penis and bladder, and surrounds the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis).
The prostate is involved in the production of semen. The prostate produces a thick, white fluid that is made into a liquid by a protein called prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The liquid is then mixed with sperm, produced by the testicles, to create semen.
If the prostate becomes enlarged, it can place pressure on the bladder and urethra. This can affect urination (passing urine when going to the toilet) and may cause:
- difficulty starting urination,
- a frequent need to urinate, and
- difficulty emptying the bladder fully.
These symptoms can range from mild to severe.
How common is prostate enlargement?
Prostate enlargement is a common condition that is associated with ageing. It is estimated that 60% of men who are 60 or over have some degree of prostate enlargement.
The cause of prostate enlargement is unknown, but most experts agree that it is linked to changes in hormone levels in a man's body due to ageing.
Prostate enlargement and prostate cancer
Many men worry that having an enlarged prostate means that they have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. This is not the case. Men with prostate enlargement do not have a higher risk of prostate cancer compared to men without an enlarged prostate.
Outlook
Prostate enlargement is not usually a serious threat to a man's health. The outlook for the condition normally depends on the pattern of associated symptoms. In some men, the symptoms are mild and do not require treatment. In others, symptoms can be very troublesome and have an adverse effect on their quality of life.
A number of treatments are available for prostate enlargement, including:
- lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and caffeine,
- medication, and
- surgery.
Last updated: 04 October 2011
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