Benign prostatic hyperplasia affects the prostate gland and makes it dificult for elderly men to pass urine. It is very common. Research is continuing to understand the causes of BPH and to develop medicines to help relieve this distressing condition.
Disease: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Last update: July 2009
Intro
FAQ
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What is it?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is when the prostate gland enlarges. This makes it dificult to pass urine. BPH increases the risk of urinary retention and of prostate infection. It is linked to a decrease in male hormones as the man gets older. -
Who gets it?
It has been said that, for a man to get BPH, all he has to do is live long enough. Some prostate enlargement is apparent in 75 per cent of men over 50 and clinical signs may be seen in almost 100 per cent of men over 90 years of age. BPH is the commonest cause of urination dificulties in men. -
What can be done about it?
Medicines are available that work on the muscles that control the emptying of the bladder. More recently, compounds that work to reduce the amount of hormone that causes prostate enlargement have been approved. Available medicines have contributed a lot to life quality of patients. Unfortunately, they do not represent a cure. Ultimately, surgery may be required. -
What does the future hold?
Clinical trials are underway which use combinations of the available medicines. A plant extract has been shown to inhibit the growth of prostate cells. Currently, its mechanism of action is being investigated. Continued research is likely to bring further improvements in the treatment of BPH. This is important as the European male population ages over the next two decades.