Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH)

Prevalence of BPH

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a very common affliction of middle aged and older men. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed diseases in the male population, with an estimated 100 million men affected globally. It is estimated that 25 to 50% of men in their 50s, and the majority of men in their 70s and 80s have some degree of BPH.

Development of BPH

The cause of BPH is unknown. It is an age-related increase in the size of the gland which occurs in the central "transition" zone of the prostate. The enlargement is progressive and the gland may increase from 25 grams up to sizes well over 100 grams. There are many aspects of the pathophysiology of BPH symptoms which are referred to as "LUTS", or lower urinary tract symptoms, and which involve the prostate gland, bladder, urethra, sphincters, male sexual hormones, various tissue elements such as gland cells, smooth muscle cells, and nerves, and many related systems.

Symptoms and Quality of Life

Symptoms can be of obstructive or irritative origin and include weakened urinary flow, urinary hesitancy, feeling of incomplete voiding, frequent urination, urinary urgency, urge incontinence, nocturia. Some of these symptoms can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. In any case, the condition can seriously impact the health and quality of life of the patients and their social network.