The prostate gland is found only in males and is located just below the bladder, where it surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine flows from the bladder and out through the penis. Benign enlargement of the prostate gland (also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH) is caused by an overgrowth of prostate cells and affects a third of men over the age of 50 and half the men over the age of 60. An enlargement compresses the urethra so the flow of urine is reduced, making it difficult to empty the bladder.
Although BPH is caused by an overgrowth of non-cancerous cells, the symptoms are very similar to those of prostate cancer, so it is important that men experiencing problems in passing urine should consult with their GP immediately.
To find out more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis methods and means of treatment of BPH, simply select an item from the menu below.
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