Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a benign (non-cancerous) disease of the Prostate gland, which, if left untreated, can lead to serious medical complications. BPH, or enlargement of the prostate, typically affects men as they age.

As men grow older, the size of their prostate can increase and start compressing the urinary canal (urethra). This can lead to urinary discomfort and disease symptoms. If left untreated, BPH can lead to serious medical conditions including bladder and kidney damage. When BPH is diagnosed and treated early, there is a lower risk of developing such complications. BPH is not a life-threatening disease, but it is likely to negatively impact quality of life.

How the prostate changes with age

A healthy prostate goes through two periods of growth. The first occurs early in puberty, when the prostate doubles in size. Around the age of 40, the prostate begins to grow again. This growth normally stops after a while. But sometimes, the prostate continues growing, and this results in an abnormal enlargement of the prostate, which causes the discomfort associated with BPH. The medical term for this condition is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).

BPH begins to be detected in men in their early 30s. The occurrence of the disease continues to rise; 50% at 50 years, 60% at 60 years and approaches 80% at 80 years.

BPH symptoms are caused by an enlarged prostate pressing against the urethra.

Lower Urinary Tract Anatomy