Prostate Cancer and Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

Prostate cancer may cause no symptoms in the early stages. In more advanced stages it can cause difficulty urinating, a weak urine jet, blood in the urine or bone pain.

BPH is the benign enlargement of the prostate, common with ageing. It can cause urinary symptoms, but it is not cancer.

The symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate, a weak urine jet, difficulty starting to urinate, urinating at night and a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.

The symptoms can be similar. The diagnosis is made through a medical assessment, specific tests and, where necessary, a prostate biopsy.

PSA is a blood test that helps detect changes in the prostate. High levels may be associated with prostate cancer, but also with BPH or inflammation.

The digital rectal exam is a simple and important test in assessing the prostate. Like the PSA test, it is recommended from the age of 50, or earlier in men with risk factors such as a family history (in these cases it is generally recommended from the age of 45).

BPH is not a malignant disease, but it can affect quality of life and cause urinary complications if it is not monitored.

You should seek medical assessment if you have persistent urinary complaints, changes in your urinary pattern or questions about prostate health.

Yes, there are several treatment options, from watchful waiting through to drug therapies or minimally invasive procedures.