Prostate Enlargement
A condition that can affect how you urinate.
Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPE) is the medical term to describe an enlarged prostate, a condition that can affect how you urinate. BPE is common in people with a Prostate aged 50 or older. It’s not Cancer, and it’s not usually a serious threat to health. BPE does not increase the risk of Prostate Cancer.
Age 40+
Age 80 > 90%
Family History > Risk
Overweight > RIsk
Diabetes > Risk
< QOL
What is BPE?
Benign Prostate Enlargement, often referred to as BPE, is a common condition that affects many men as they age. It involves the non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland, which can lead to various urinary symptoms. Symptoms occur because the enlarged prostate gland is blocking the flow of urine through the urethra. Understanding BPE is essential for recognising its impact on daily life. Symptoms may include frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. Being aware of these signs allows you to take proactive steps towards managing your health. Many men find lifestyle changes are enough, but some choose medications, and there is surgery if required. A GP can guide you.
It is essential to note this is not necessarily a medical condition based on disease, but ageing. The Prostate naturally increases in size with age. This is due to the relationship between Prostate cells around the Urethra and Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent derivative of the male hormone testosterone. As levels change, these cells react.
NORMAL
A normal prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland that is a key part of the male reproductive and urinary systems. In it's normal state it does not compress the Urethra and allows free flow of urine.
GROWING
As people with a Prostate age their Prostate increases in size (see table below). This begins to bring with it symptoms of BPE, which can start as mild and eventually require treatment.
ENLARGED
When symptoms of BPE become problematic and affect Quality of Life, usually Prostate size has begun to impact the function of both the bladder and urethra.
Prostate Size by Age
Age increases the size of a Prostate
While there is no single "normal" size for a man of a given age, the trend of increase in size with age is apparent.
| Age | Prostate Size (g) | (%) with BPE |
|---|---|---|
| 20s and 30s | 20 to 30 grams (normal) | Minimal |
| 40 and 50s | > 30 grams | Approx 20% |
| 60s | 40 to 60 grams | Approx 50% |
| 80s | 60 grams | Approx 90% |