Contents
Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Affecting You?
Published: Jun 13, 2024
Many older men experience an enlarged prostate, known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). This article explores what BPH is and why it becomes a concern as men age.
What is BPH?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH, involves an increase in the number of cells in the prostate, leading to its enlargement. This condition often leads to the formation of large nodules in the prostate. BPH is different from benign prostatic hypertrophy, which is the increase in size of individual prostate cells.
Who is Affected?
BPH is primarily a condition of aging. In the United States, about 70% of men aged 60-69 and 80% of men aged 70 and above experience BPH. As men age, the prevalence and severity of symptoms increase significantly.
Symptoms to Watch For
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with BPH include frequent urination, urgency, nocturia, and difficulty starting urination. These symptoms can worsen over time and significantly impact quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
BPH is the enlargement of the prostate due to increased cell numbers.
BPH mostly affects older men, especially those over 60.
Symptoms include frequent urination and difficulty starting to urinate.
No, BPH is not cancer and does not increase cancer risk.
It is rare in men under 40.
The Bottom Line
Understanding BPH and its symptoms can help in seeking timely treatment.
References
- Berry SJ, Coffey DS, Walsh PC, Ewing LL. The development of human benign prostatic hyperplasia with age. J Urol 1984; 132:474.
- Welliver C, Feinstein L, Ward JB, et al. Trends in Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, 2004 to 2013: the Urologic Diseases in America Project. J Urol 2020; 203:171.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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