Myths And Facts About Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that may cause problems with urination. If you have BPH, it’s important to separate the facts from myths so you can make an informed decision about what to do next. Consider the following myths and facts about BPH:
Myth: BPH is linked to prostate cancer
Fact: BPH is a non-cancerous condition. However, its early symptoms often may be confused with that of prostate cancer.
Myth: The bigger the prostate, the worse the symptoms are
Fact: The size of your prostate is not necessarily linked to the severity of your symptoms. Some men have a very enlarged prostate and just get a bit of dribbling from time to time, others unfortunately have a range of problems with only slight prostate enlargement.
Myth: BPH only occurs in older men
Fact: Although BPH is more common in older men, it is also a fact that one can develop prostate problems at any age. 50 years of age is just the point where the risk of developing prostate problem is much more prevalent than in younger men. However, we will like to make it clear that age is not a demarcation line, it is just a risk factor.
Myth: BPH can lead to more problems
Fact: Past studies have shown that BPH does not necessarily lead to additional problems with the prostate. BPH is simply the enlargement of prostate gland which is caused by the overproduction of the hormone testosterone.
Myth: There is nothing you can do to relieve the symptoms of BPH
Fact: There are a number of ways you can relieve the symptoms of BPH. In some cases you can ease symptoms simply by avoiding drinks with caffeine, a diet high in fat, and certain types of medications.
Myth: BPH should always be medically treated
Fact: If you’ve been diagnosed with BPH but have no bothersome symptoms, you do not need treatment. If you do have bothersome symptoms, such as frequent urination or a weak urine stream, there are several treatment options to choose from.
Myth: Having surgery for BPH might have the added benefit of preventing prostate cancer
Fact: A common belief is that surgery for treating BPH can also lower the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, this opinion is simply a myth. This is because only the inner part of the prostate gland is removed or destroyed in the surgical procedures used for BPH and cancer usually develops in the outer part. So, there is no way that the risk for getting prostate cancer can be lowered by having a surgery.
Myth: Frequent or infrequent sexual activity is unhealthy for the prostate
Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that BPH is caused or aggravated by sexual habits.
