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The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It produces some fluids that carry sperm during ejaculation. This gland can be affected by enlargement, and in this article, we will explain the Enlarged Prostate Gland causes in Elderly Men.
Enlarged Prostate Gland Causes in Elderly Men
Enlarged prostate gland or Prostate enlargement is medically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a condition in which the cells of the prostate gland begin to multiply and grow as men age, leading to significant enlargement and the appearance of symptoms and complications, including difficulty urinating. (1)(2)(6)
This problem is common in men over 50 and is considered a normal aging condition. (1)
The prostate goes through two main growth periods: the first occurs early in puberty, while the second growth phase usually begins around 25 and continues throughout most of life. Benign prostatic hyperplasia typically occurs during the second phase. (7)
Regarding the causes of Prostate enlargement in elderly men, the exact reasons have not been fully identified and understood so far. However, the following factors may play a role:
1. Changes in the balance of male sex hormones with aging
Scientists have explained this through the following theories: (7)(1)
- Men produce large amounts of the male hormone testosterone and small amounts of the female hormone estrogen. However, as men age, the functional level of testosterone in the blood decreases, which leaves a higher proportion of estrogen. Several studies have shown that estrogen can stimulate the growth-promoting substances in prostate cells.
- The second theory relies on the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which plays a role in prostate growth. Some research has indicated that despite the decrease in testosterone with aging, the body continues to produce DHT, and the accumulation of large amounts of DHT encourages the growth of prostate cells.
2. Changes in testicular cells with aging
Testicular cells change with aging, which can contribute to prostate enlargement. It has been observed that men who underwent testicle removal at a young age due to testicular cancer do not develop prostate enlargement.
Furthermore, it has been noticed that the size of the prostate started to decrease in men who underwent testicle removal after developing benign prostatic hyperplasia. (3)
Risk Factors of Enlarged Prostate in Elderly Men
Advancing age is a significant factor in increasing the risk of prostate enlargement. It is rare for the prostate to enlarge and cause symptoms in men aged 40 or younger. However, as men age, the chances of developing prostate enlargement significantly increase. The following table illustrates this relationship: (4)(6)
The relationship between age and increased risk of prostate enlargement:
| Age | Approximate Percentage of Prostate Enlargement |
|---|---|
| 51 - 60 years | 50 % |
| 60 - 69 years | 70 % |
| Above 70 years | 80 % |
Other factors that increase the risk of Enlarged prostate gland
The other factors that increase the risk of developing prostate enlargement include the following: (4)(5)
- Family history: The likelihood of developing prostate enlargement increases if a family member, such as a father or brother, has the condition.
- Diabetes or heart disease: Several studies have indicated that having diabetes or heart disease, or taking beta-blocker medications, increases the risk of prostate enlargement in older men.
- Lifestyle: Obesity and lack of exercise raises the risk of prostate enlargement.
Does Enlarged Prostate Gland increase the risk of prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer and an Enlarged prostate gland are two different conditions that do not share symptoms. Prostate cancer is often asymptomatic and is detected through a series of tests and screenings, while an Enlarged prostate gland causes symptoms.
An enlarged prostate gland does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, it is still advisable to undergo regular prostate screenings to ensure good health. (1)
Therefore, we recommend visiting any of Al-Borg Labs branches to ensure your health by undergoing Prostate Package screenings.
References:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/enlarged-prostate#About-the-prostate
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-enlargement/#:~:text=The%20cause%20of%20prostate%20enlargement,your%20prostate%20gland%20to%20grow.
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000381.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087
- https://www.rezum.com/patient-resources/understanding-bph/what-causes-prostate-enlargement.html
- https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/enlarged-prostate-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph
- https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/prostate-enlargement-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia#causes
