As men age, they are at risk for two of the most common male health issues – benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) and prostate cancer. Both can cause urinary issues, and it can be challenging to know the difference.
Because prostate cancer is so common, it’s recommended to begin screening for it around age 50. That’s also the time many men may start experiencing the unwanted symptoms of BPH. Working with an experienced urologist is essential so they can help you identify whether you may have BPH vs prostate cancer.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, affecting nearly 80% of men at some point. The prostate, which is located below the bladder and around the urethra, tends to grow larger over time due to a lifetime of the presence of testosterone. This enlargement can squeeze the urethra, leading to urinary issues such as:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Urgency to urinate
- Difficulty starting urination
- Feeling that the bladder is not completely empty
- Dribbling of urine after finishing
BPH is not prostate cancer and does not lead to prostate cancer. However, the troublesome symptoms can significantly impact quality of life.
There are many treatments available for BPH. Options include medications such as alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, which help relax prostate muscles and reduce hormone levels that contribute to prostate growth.
Minimally invasive procedures like UroLift, Aquablation, GreenLight Laser Therapy, and Rezum can be effective treatments in more severe cases. Surgical interventions like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) may be in cases where the prostate is very large.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a malignant growth within the prostate gland. It is one of the most common cancers in men. Unlike BPH, prostate cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of cells that can spread or metastasize to other parts of the body, potentially affecting organs such as the bones, liver, and lungs.
Prostate cancer is often detected through elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood or through abnormalities found during a digital rectal exam. Biopsy and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans are usually performed.
Early prostate cancer usually does not have any symptoms. Common symptoms of more advanced prostate cancer include:
- Difficulty urinating or maintaining a steady stream of urine
- Blood in urine or semen
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain in the hips, back, or chest if cancer has spread
- Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet
Depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, treatment options may include:
- Active surveillance or watchful waiting
- HIFU
- Surgery, such as radical prostatectomy
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Chemotherapy
Prostate Health – Steps You Can Take
Proactive management of your prostate health can make a significant difference in early disease detection and treatment outcomes. To manage your prostate health effectively, consider these essential steps:
Regular Screenings
If you’re between the ages of 50 and 70, annual prostate screenings are highly recommended. For men at higher risk, such as those with a family history of prostate cancer, your doctor may recommend you start screenings at age 40. Regular screenings can help detect changes early when treatment is most effective.
Monitor Symptoms
Pay close attention to any symptoms you experience, such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, or pain. Keep a detailed record of your symptoms and discuss them with your doctor.
Diagnostic Tests
If you experience symptoms, your doctor may recommend diagnostic tests to determine the cause. These tests can include:
- Digital rectal exam (DRE). Your doctor will feel the prostate through the rectum to check for abnormalities.
- Prostate-specific antigen test. A laboratory blood test that measures PSA levels, which can be elevated in men with prostate cancer or other prostate conditions.
- Imaging tests. Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans can be performed to get a clearer view of the prostate and surrounding areas.
- Biopsy. If cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
See A Urologist for BPH vs Prostate Cancer
Take proactive steps to manage your prostate health. Regular screenings, symptom monitoring, and appropriate diagnostic tests are recommended. If you’re experiencing urinary challenges and are wondering if it’s BPH vs prostate cancer, it’s time to see a urologist right away.
Take control of your prostate health and call 843.347.2450 to schedule an appointment today!