Prostate Enlargement (BPH): Myths & Facts

Prostate enlargement or Enlarged Prostate is a common health condition that impacts many men, especially as they grow older. Despite being widespread, it is often surrounded by misinformation, fear, and misconceptions. Many men delay seeking medical help due to myths related to cancer, sexual function, or surgery, which can lead to worsening symptoms and complications.

At PACE Hospitals, we believe that accurate information and early medical guidance are key to maintaining long-term urological health. This comprehensive guide clears common myths, explains medical facts, and outlines modern diagnosis and treatment options for prostate enlargement in a simple, patient-friendly manner.

Prostate enlargement, medically referred as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a non-cancerous increase in the size of the prostate gland. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.

As the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra and interfere with normal urine flow. This leads to urinary symptoms that may range from mild inconvenience to significant discomfort affecting daily life.

Prostate enlargement,also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is strongly age-related. It is uncommon in younger men but becomes increasingly prevalent as men grow older due to hormonal changes that occur with aging. Medical studies consistently show that:

• About 40% of men in their 50s show signs of prostate enlargement
• Nearly 50–60% of men in their 60s experience moderate urinary symptoms related to BPH
• Up to 80–90% of men above 70–80 years have some degree of prostate enlargement

Although prostate growth begins slowly after the age of 40, symptoms often become noticeable only later in life. Age-related enlargement is a natural process and does not indicate cancer, but early evaluation helps prevent complications.

An Enlarged Prostate is closely linked to aging and hormonal changes in men. While the exact cause is not fully understood, factors that contribute include:

• Age-related changes in male hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone
• Increased sensitivity of prostate tissue to hormonal stimulation
• Genetic predisposition and family history
• Lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity

Prostate enlargement is not caused by infection or cancer, and it is considered a natural part of aging for many men.

Prostate enlargement is one of the most frequently diagnosed urological conditions in aging men worldwide. Population-based studies indicate that:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia accounts for over 70% of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men above 50 years
• Nearly 1 in 3 men over the age of 60 seek medical care for BPH-related symptoms
• The likelihood of requiring treatment increases with age, symptom severity, and prostate size

These statistics highlight why prostate enlargement is considered a major men’s health concern and why timely medical consultation is essential.

Symptoms of an enlarged prostate usually develop gradually and may worsen over time if left untreated. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urge to urinate, mostly at night
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Difficulty starting urination
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• Sudden, urgent need to urinate

The severity of symptoms is not usually associated with prostate size. Even a moderately enlarged prostate might produce considerable problems in some individuals.

Men should seek specialist care when urinary symptoms begin to interfere with everyday activities, disrupt sleep, or affect overall quality of life. Timely evaluation helps rule out other conditions and reduces the risk of complications such as urinary retention, bladder injury, or kidney problems.

At PACE Hospitals, well-renowned urologists encourage men not to ignore symptoms, even if they seem mild or age-related.

Understanding the truth about prostate enlargement helps reduce anxiety and promotes timely treatment. Below are common myths and the facts behind them.

Fact: Prostate enlargement (BPH) is not cancer. It is a benign condition and does not increase the risk of prostate cancer. However, both conditions can coexist, which is why proper evaluation is important.

Fact: While prostate enlargement is more common after the age of 50, symptoms can begin earlier. Men in their 40s may also experience early signs of BPH.

Fact:  Prostate enlargement can often be adequately treated with medication and lifestyle changes. Surgical treatment is often considered only when symptoms become severe or problems develop.

Fact:  Modern treatment options are designed to preserve sexual function and are not troublesome. Doctors at PACE Hospitals carefully choose therapies based on individual needs and concerns.

Fact: Reducing fluid intake excessively can get more bladder irritation and increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Proper hydration is important.

Diagnosis involves a detailed clinical assessment to confirm BPH and rule out other causes of urinary symptoms.

Medical History and Symptom Assessment

Doctors evaluate urinary symptoms, their duration, and their impact on daily life using standardized questionnaires to know how its affecting normal phenomenon.

Physical Examination

A digital rectal examination is performed to assess the size, shape, and firmness of the prostate.

Laboratory Tests

Urine analysis and blood investigations, including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, may be advised to rule out infections or other prostate-related conditions.

Imaging and Functional Tests

Ultrasound and urine flow studies help assess bladder emptying and urinary flow obstruction.

Treatment depends on symptom severity, prostate size, age, and overall health of an individual.

Watchful Waiting

Men with minor symptoms may just need regular monitoring and lifestyle changes.

Medications

Medications help relax prostate muscles or reduce prostate size, improving urine flow and reducing symptoms.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Modern treatments provide symptom relief with a quicker recovery time and less disruption to everyday life.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical intervention is recommended for men with severe symptoms, recurrent urinary retention, bladder stones, repeated urinary tract infections, or kidney-related complications due to prostate enlargement. Some of the best options are: 

• Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) – Gold Standard Surgery
• Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) – Advanced Laser Surgery

One of the most established and effective treatment modalities for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) for several decades is Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). In this procedure, the enlarged prostate tissue causing urinary obstruction is removed using a specialized wire loop passed through the urethra, without any external incision. TURP is considered the gold standard for moderate to severe prostate enlargement and provides reliable, long-term relief from urinary symptoms.

The latest and most advanced surgical intervention for prostate enlargement is Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP). This laser-based technique precisely removes the enlarged prostate tissue with excellent safety margins and high efficiency. HoLEP is associated with less blood loss, faster recovery, shorter catheterization times, and long-term outcomes, even in individuals with large prostates.

At PACE Hospitals, treatment decisions are individualized, focusing on safety, effectiveness, and quality of life.

Certain everyday habits can play an important role in easing urinary symptoms:

• Reducing the intake of caffeine and alcoholic beverages
• Avoiding excess fluid consumption close to bedtime
• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Remaining physically active on a regular basis 
• Following bladder training and timed voiding techniques

Untreated prostate enlargement may lead to:

• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Acute urinary retention
• Bladder stones
• Bladder or kidney damage

Timely proper treatment helps prevent these complications.

Urinary symptoms can affect sleep, work productivity, and emotional well-being. Many men experience embarrassment or frustration. Addressing prostate enlargement improves overall quality of life and confidence level.