What is benign prostatic hyperplasia? Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer are two of the most common conditions that affect the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. The prostate is a chestnut-shaped gland located immediately below the bladder, surrounding the beginning of the urinary canal (urethra), through which urine is removed from the bladder. The prostate gland produces a secretion that is part of the seminal fluid. In a young man, the prostate is usually about the size of a walnut, although it tends to get larger with age. Men’s risk of developing prostate problems also increases with age. Although it affects the prostate, benign prostatic hyperplasia does not lead to prostate cancer. Although it is possible to develop both problems, one does not cause the other. What are the risk factors for developing benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer? Some of the symptoms and risk factors for the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer are similar. The word “benign” in benign prostatic hyperplasia means that the condition is not cancerous (that is, malignant). “Hyperplasia” means an increased number of cells (which are not cancerous). Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is also known as an enlarged prostate. It’s not entirely clear what causes an enlarged prostate, but age seems to play a role. The main male hormone is testosterone, and its levels naturally decline with age. Smaller amounts of dihydrotestosterone and estrogen are produced along with testosterone. Some researchers theorize that when testosterone levels drop, this causes higher proportions of estrogen and DHT in the male. This can encourage prostate cells to grow. The main risk factor for the occurrence of benign prostatic hyperplasia is age. The condition rarely occurs under the age of 40. Half of all men between the ages of 51 and 60 have DPH, and the condition can affect up to 90% of men over 80. Other risk factors for developing BPH include: Family history (family history) � having relatives with BPH increases the risk of developing the condition; Overall health � conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease increase the risk of developing BPH; Obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle � being overweight can increase the risk of developing BPH, while exercising can reduce it. Cancer occurs when cells develop changes in their DNA that cause abnormal cells to grow out of control. Exactly what causes this in prostate cells is not known. As with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the biggest risk factor for prostate cancer is aging.Men over the age of 50 are at the highest risk of developing prostate cancer. About 13 out of every 100 men get prostate cancer in their lifetime. Other risk factors for developing prostate cancer include: Family history � having relatives (such as a father or brother) who have developed prostate cancer puts you at a higher risk of developing the condition; Diet – a diet high in fat increases the risk of developing prostate cancer. What are the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer? Some symptoms that are common to both BPH and prostate cancer include: Frequent or urgent need to urinate, especially at night (nocturia); Difficulty urinating; Weak, slow or interrupted stream of urine when urinating; Pain when urinating or ejaculating. Other symptoms of BPH are: Urine dripping after urination; Urine has an unusual odor or color; Feeling that the bladder has not been completely emptied after urinating; Straining when urinating. Some other symptoms of prostate cancer are: Burning when urinating; Blood in the urine or semen; Persistent pain in the pelvis, hips, back, or bones. References: 1. National Cancer Institute. Understanding Prostate Changes: A Health Guide for Men 2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) 3. Mayo Clinic. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) 4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Who Is at Risk for Prostate Cancer?Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) 4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Who Is at Risk for Prostate Cancer?Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) 4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Who Is at Risk for Prostate Cancer?