Enlarged Prostate Vs Prostate Cancer: What You Need to Know ?

When it comes to men’s health, the prostate gland often becomes a focal point, particularly as men age. The prostate is a small-sized organ that plays a supporting role in the male genitourinary system. It is a site of two major pathologies in older men: prostate cancer and enlarged prostate [also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)]. Although they share some similarities, these conditions are distinct and require different diagnosis, treatment, and management approaches. This article is all about the Enlarged Prostate Vs Prostate Cancer. 

Prostate cancer ranks as one of the most prevalent cancers globally and is a major cause of cancer-related deaths in men in developed nations. BPH is also widespread, impacting around 70% of men over the age of 70. These conditions pose considerable challenges for healthcare systems across various regions, and these issues will escalate in the future because of larger elderly populations in many countries.

What is the Prostate Gland?

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped organ located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate gland surrounds the urethra. The urethra is a tube responsible for carrying urine and semen out of the body. The primary role of the prostate is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. However, as men age, the prostate can undergo significant changes that might lead to health issues like BPH or prostate cancer.

What Is An Enlarged Prostate?

An enlarged prostate is medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is a non-cancerous condition characterized by an increase in the size of the prostate gland. BPH is common in older men, with studies indicating that up to 50% of men over 50 and 90% of men over 80 experience symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

What Are The Causes of Enlarged Prostate?

The exact cause of BPH is not fully understood, but it is linked to hormonal changes that occur with aging. As men grow older, their testosterone levels decrease, leading to a relative increase in estrogen. This hormonal imbalance may stimulate prostate growth.

What Are The Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate?

BPH primarily affects urination due to its impact on the urethra. Common symptoms of an enlarged prostate are:

  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Difficulty starting urination
  • Weak or interrupted urine flow
  • The feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
  • Urgency to urinate

How Is An Enlarged Prostate Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of an enlarged prostate includes the following:

  • A digital rectal exam (DRE) assesses the size and texture of the prostate.
  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures PSA levels and rules out prostate cancer.
  • Ultrasound evaluates the size of the prostate.
  • The urine flow test measures the strength and flow of urine.

What Are The Treatment Options For Enlarged Prostate?

Treatment of an enlarged prostate depends on the severity of symptoms and may include the following:

  1. Reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol.
  2. Avoid fluids before bedtime and exercise regularly.
  3. Your doctor may advise medications like alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) to relax prostate muscles and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride) to shrink the prostate.
  4. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor might advise you to undergo minimally invasive procedures such as Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or UroLift system for opening the blocked urethra.
  5. In severe cases, prostatectomy may be necessary.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably. It is one of the most common cancers among men worldwide, often detected through routine screening before symptoms develop.

What Are The Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as it progresses, you might observe the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty urinating
  • Blood in urine or semen
  • Pelvic discomfort
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Bone pain (in advanced stages)

What Are The Causes of Prostate Cancer?

The exact cause of prostate cancer remains unknown, but several factors increase risk. These may include the following:

  • Risk increases after 50 years of age.
  • A family history of prostate cancer in close relatives also increases the risk of prostate cancer.
  • African-American men are at higher risk.
  • High-fat diets and obesity may contribute to the risk of developing prostate cancer.

How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?

Prostate cancer diagnosis involves several steps:

  1. First, your doctor will conduct screening tests like PSA and DRE.
  2. Secondly, an MRI or ultrasound might be suggested to get detailed prostate images.
  3. Your doctor can also take a tissue sample (biopsy) to confirm the presence of cancer.
  4. Last but not least, the Gleason Score assesses cancer aggressiveness based on biopsy results.

How Is Prostate Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the stage and grade of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Your doctor may consider any of the following options for your betterment:

  1. Active surveillance for low-risk, slow-growing cancers.
  2. Surgery such as radical prostatectomy to remove the entire prostate gland.
  3. Radiation therapy such as external or internal (brachytherapy) radiation to target cancer cells.
  4. Hormone therapy reduces testosterone levels which further slows cancer growth.
  5. Chemotherapy for advanced or resistant prostate cancer.
  6. Immunotherapy boosts the immune system to fight cancer.

Enlarged Prostate vs. Prostate Cancer: Key Differences

While BPH and prostate cancer both affect the prostate gland, they are fundamentally different conditions. Here are the key distinctions:

Feature Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Prostate Cancer
Nature Non-cancerous Cancerous
Cause Hormonal changes Genetic and lifestyle factors
Symptoms Urinary issues, no pain May include urinary and systemic symptoms
PSA Levels Mildly elevated or normal Often significantly elevated
Treatment Approach Medications, lifestyle changes, surgery May involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy

Shared Risk Factors & Prevention of BPH And Prostate Cancer

Both BPH and prostate cancer share some common risk factors, such as age and hormonal changes. To promote prostate health, consider the following preventive measures:

  1. Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  2. Maintains a healthy weight and reduces inflammation by exercising daily.
  3. Get routine screenings through PSA tests and DRE.
  4. Limit your consumption of alcohol and caffeine as they can irritate the bladder.
  5. Be aware of your family history and consult your doctor if symptoms arise.

If you experience persistent urinary symptoms, pelvic discomfort, or other unusual signs, consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing both BPH and prostate cancer.

To Conclude

Understanding the differences between an enlarged prostate and prostate cancer is essential for effective management and treatment. While an enlarged prostate is a common and benign condition, prostate cancer requires timely intervention to prevent complications. Regular screenings, a healthy lifestyle, and prompt medical attention are key to maintaining prostate health and improving quality of life. Consult EdhaCare if you or a loved one are experiencing prostate-related symptoms. Hopefully, you liked the discussed topic ‘Enlarged Prostate Vs Prostate Cancer’. Do not hesitate to seek professional advice!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How Can You Tell The Difference Between An Enlarged Prostate and Prostate Cancer?

An enlarged prostate usually causes urinary symptoms like difficulty urinating or frequent urination but without pain or other systemic signs. Prostate cancer may present with similar symptoms but can also include blood in urine, pain, or weight loss. Diagnosis typically involves a PSA test, physical exam, and imaging.

Is It Okay To Live With An Enlarged Prostate?

Yes, many men live with an enlarged prostate if symptoms are mild. However, severe symptoms like urinary retention or recurrent infections should be addressed with medical treatment or surgery to prevent complications.

What Causes An Enlarged Prostate Without Cancer?

An enlarged prostate is caused by hormonal changes as men age, particularly increased dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels. This is a non-cancerous condition and is common in men over 50.

Does a Very Enlarged Prostate Mean Cancer?

Not necessarily. A very enlarged prostate is usually due to BPH, which is benign. However, further evaluation, including PSA levels and a biopsy, may be needed to rule out prostate cancer.

Can A Prostate Be Enlarged Without Cancer?

Yes, prostate enlargement often occurs due to BPH, which is non-cancerous. This condition is common with aging and is unrelated to prostate cancer.

Can An Enlarged Prostate Go Back To Normal?

An enlarged prostate rarely shrinks to its original size without treatment. Medications or minimally invasive procedures can reduce its size and alleviate symptoms effectively.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *