Introduction
Prostate health is a topic most men tend to avoid until it becomes a concern. But being aware of the signs and seeking timely care can prevent serious issues. Two of the most common prostate problems are Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Prostate Cancer. Though they share some symptoms, they are very different in nature, progression, and treatment.
What Is the Prostate?
The prostate is a small gland in men located just below the bladder. It plays a key role in producing the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. As men age, the prostate often becomes enlarged, leading to various urinary symptoms.
Common Prostate Conditions
1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, commonly affecting men over 50.
Signs and Symptoms of BPH:
- Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Dribbling at the end of urination
2. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate grow abnormally and form a tumor. It is one of the most common cancers in men but is often slow-growing and treatable when detected early.
Early Symptoms May Include:
- Trouble urinating
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain during urination or ejaculation
- Pelvic or lower back pain (advanced stages)
- Sudden weight loss or fatigue
Risk Factors to Know
- Age above 50
- Family history of prostate cancer
- High-fat diet or obesity
- Smoking or alcohol use
- African or South Asian ancestry
Screening and Diagnosis
Common diagnostic tools include:
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A quick physical check to feel the size and shape of the prostate.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test that checks PSA levels. Higher levels may indicate BPH or cancer.
- Ultrasound or MRI: For clearer imaging of the prostate.
- Biopsy: If cancer is suspected, a small sample of prostate tissue is tested.
Regular screening is advised for men above 50 earlier if there’s a family history.
Treatment Options
For BPH:
- Lifestyle changes: Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, avoid late-night fluids.
- Medications: Alpha-blockers or 5-alpha reductase inhibitors to shrink the prostate.
- Minimally invasive procedures: Like TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) or laser surgery.
- Advanced options at our hospital: Endoscopic and laser treatments for long-term relief.
For Prostate Cancer:
- Active surveillance: For slow-growing cancers in early stages.
- Surgery (Prostatectomy): Removal of the prostate.
- Radiation therapy: External or internal radiation to target cancer cells.
- Hormone therapy: To reduce testosterone that fuels cancer growth.
- Chemotherapy and newer immunotherapies: For advanced stages.
How to Maintain Prostate Health
- Get regular checkups after 50
- Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s
- Stay active and maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
- Discuss family history with your doctor
Conclusion
Prostate health should not be ignored. Whether it’s BPH or prostate cancer, early detection and timely treatment can protect your quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms or are above 50, consult your doctor for a prostate health checkup.
At Iswarya Hospital, we provide expert urological care with advanced diagnostics and treatments tailored to your needs.
Book your consultation with Dr. Veerappan R,
Consultant Urologist & Minimally Invasive Surgeon – OMR, Chennai.
FAQs
No. Most cases of enlargement are due to BPH, a non-cancerous condition.
Yes, especially when caught early. Treatment success is high in early stages.
Generally, PSA above 4 ng/mL may need further testing. However, it depends on age and other factors.
Not always. Some slow-growing cancers may only need active surveillance.
Men over 50 should have yearly screenings. Start earlier if you have risk factors.