It is not perfectly clear as to what leads the prostate to grow larger and larger during a man’s life. Significant growth during puberty is expected and completely normal, though research shows that the prostate again begins slowly increasing in size from age 25 and continues throughout the man’s life. 

Since gradual prostate growth is consistent among a large majority of men, it is extremely common for this condition to be diagnosed in those of an older age. Statistically speaking, BPH affects: 

• 20% of men over 50 

• 60% of men over 60 

• 70% of men over 70 

• 90% of men over 80 

In addition to age, other risk factors include having a family history of BPH, being obese, leading a sedentary lifestyle that does not include regular exercise, having type 2 diabetes, and experiencing erectile dysfunction. 

Men typically have the health of their prostate evaluated during yearly physical examinations with their physician. This simple screening is often able to detect superficial abnormalities of the prostate, such as unusually large sizing. 

Patients who schedule a consultation with South Texas Urology Group regarding BPH will begin by thoroughly discussing their symptoms, personal medical history, and family medical history. A physical evaluation is often performed as well, and additional diagnostic tests may be ordered to analyze the functionality of the patient’s urinary system. 

Not necessarily. Some patients may elect to hold off on treating their enlarged prostate and instead choose to monitor the progression of their symptoms over time. Our board-certified urologists will typically suggest more frequent checkups at P our urology clinic in San Antonio, TX   to regularly assess the health of the prostate and determine if the patient’s BPH is worsening. 

While men can choose to avoid treating their BPH, it is highly encouraged to speak with a specialist about treatment options if symptoms caused by the condition are negatively affecting daily tasks and activities. 

ifestyle changes and medications are often the first options recommended for men that experience mild symptoms caused by BPH. Reducing liquid intake, avoiding stimulants, and practicing pelvic floor strengthening exercises can all help patients regain a bit more control over their urinary functions, while some forms medications have shown to slow or completely stop the growth of the prostate. 

Through new technological advancements within the healthcare industry, there are many minimally invasive procedures available to men suffering from more considerable urinary difficulties. These include: 

•  Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy 

• The UroLift® System 

• Aqua-ablation 

In some instances, DOCTOR may suggest surgery for patients with more complex cases of BPH to achieve effective relief from their symptoms. These surgical procedures may include transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP), and robotic simple prostatectomy. Given our board certified urologists at South Texas Urology Group’s unique expertise in using the da Vinci Surgical System, it may be possible to avoid open surgery in favor of minimally invasive techniques. 

Most patients will not experience severe complications caused by an enlarged prostate. However, it is entirely possible for BPH to lead to daily dysfunctions in a man’s life as he struggles to manage worsening symptoms, or for this condition to lead to significant damage to the kidneys, urinary tract, or bladder. 

No. Because BPH is a benign condition, its symptoms have absolutely nothing to do with cancerous cell growth of the prostate.