What Are They?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, common in aging men.

Prostate Cancer: A malignant condition where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the prostate, potentially spreading.

How They Differ:

Cause

BPH: Due to hormonal changes, particularly increased DHT levels.

Prostate Cancer: Caused by genetic mutations leading to uncontrolled cell division.

Symptoms

BPH: Frequent urination, weak urine stream, urgency, nocturia.

Prostate Cancer: Similar to BPH but may also include blood in urine, bone pain, or unexplained weight loss.

✅ Diagnostic Tools

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE):

BPH: Prostate feels smooth, firm, and enlarged.

Prostate Cancer: Prostate may feel hard, irregular, or lumpy.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test:

BPH: Slight increase in PSA levels.

Prostate Cancer: Often shows significantly elevated PSA.

Biopsy:

BPH: Not required unless prostate cancer is suspected.

Prostate Cancer: Needed for confirmation.

Treatment Approaches:

For BPH

Lifestyle changes: Reduce caffeine/alcohol, avoid late-night fluids.

Medications:

Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) – relax prostate muscles.

5-alpha reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride) – shrink the prostate.

Minimally invasive procedures:

TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate).

Laser therapy.

For Prostate Cancer

Active surveillance: For slow-growing cases.

Hormone therapy: Lowers testosterone to slow cancer growth.

Radiotherapy: External beam or brachytherapy (radiation implants).

Surgery: Radical prostatectomy for aggressive cases.

Chemotherapy: For advanced/metastatic cancer.

Outlook & Prognosis

BPH: Non-cancerous, manageable with medications and procedures.

Prostate Cancer: Early detection leads to high survival rates; aggressive types require ongoing management.

Final Thoughts

Regular check-ups and early screening are crucial. If experiencing symptoms, seek medical advice for proper evaluation and management.

References

NICE Guidelines on Prostate Conditions

British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS)

European Urology Association (EUA) Recommendations

Dr Geranmayeh