Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition that affects millions of men worldwide, and it has a variety of risk factors. In this article, we will delve into five of the most commonly observed Benign Prostate Hypertrophy risk factors, including age, genetics, lifestyle choices, and more. By understanding these Benign Prostate Hypertrophy risk factors, men can take proactive steps to reduce their chances of developing BPH and its associated symptoms.
Table of Contents
Age – The Older You Are, the Higher Your Risk
One of the most important Benign Prostate Hypertrophy risk factors is age. Men’s prostates normally grow as they age, increasing their risk for BPH.
According to statistics, 8 out of 10 men over the age of 85 have BPH symptoms. Furthermore, beyond the age of 50, a man’s chance of acquiring BPH rises with each decade.
Although age is a significant determinant, this does not indicate that younger men are immune to the disorder; rather, it is more frequent among older men.
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Genetics – Is BPH Straddling Your Family Tree?
According to research, heredity may have a role in raising the risk of BPH. Men who have had BPH in their dads are more prone to have the ailment themselves.
Furthermore, research has found a link between hereditary alterations in particular genes and a higher risk of BPH.
As a result, while assessing your risk of having Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, it is critical to be informed of your family’s medical history.
Body Weight and Activity Level – Keep Moving to Lower Your Risk
Being overweight or obese might raise your chances of developing BPH. According to research, men with a higher body mass index (BMI) are more likely to have elevated levels of prostate development.
Furthermore, being physically inactive might increase your risk of BPH, therefore it is critical to keep active and engaged as you age.
Consult your doctor about a suitable exercise routine for you, and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each day.
Nutrition- Diets High in Animal Fat Linked to BPH
According to research, diets heavy in animal fats, such as red and processed meats, may increase the chance of getting BPH.
Diets high in vegetables, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids, on the other hand, may help guard against BPH symptoms.
If you want to lower your risk of BPH, eat a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption – Avoid Them to Lower your Risk
Studies have shown that smoking and consuming alcohol are associated with an increased risk of BPH.
Tobacco use and heavy alcohol use can harm the urinary system, resulting in prostate enlargement.
Quitting smoking and limiting excessive alcohol use might help lower your chances of getting BPH.
What causes benign prostate hypertrophy?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), also known as benign prostatic hypertrophy, is caused by an increase in the size of the prostate gland.
The actual etiology of BPH is unknown, however it is thought to be related to hormonal changes that occur with ageing, including an increase in testosterone and a reduction in estrogen levels.
Genetics, food, and lifestyle variables may also play a role in the development of BPH.
In other circumstances, BPH might be caused by an enlarged prostate gland caused by another medical problem.
How is benign prostatic hyperplasia diagnosed?
A physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic testing are used to identify Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). The following are some popular ways for diagnosing BPH:
The doctor feels the prostate gland for any enlargement or abnormal growths during a digital rectal exam (DRE).
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test that detects the existence of prostate cancer or other prostate disorders by measuring the amount of PSA, a protein generated by the prostate gland.
Urine Flow Test: A test that assesses any urinary symptoms associated with BPH by measuring the speed and volume of urine flow.
Uroflowmetry: A test that determines the flow rate and volume of urine produced during urination.
PVR (Post-Void Residual Volume) Test: A test that assesses urinary retention by measuring the volume of pee remained in the bladder after urinating.
Cystoscopy: A test that employs a tiny, flexible scope to look for any abnormalities inside the bladder and urethra.
The doctor can diagnose BPH and establish a suitable treatment strategy based on the findings of these tests.
Further testing, such as a biopsy, may be necessary in some circumstances to rule out prostate cancer.
How is benign prostatic hyperplasia treated?
Depending on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s general health, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can be treated with a range of medication and surgical methods. Some popular BPH therapies include:
Medications: Alpha-blockers, which relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, which shrink the prostate gland, can also help reduce BPH-related urine symptoms.
Changes in diet, fluid intake, and bathroom habits can all help improve urinary symptoms caused by BPH.
Transurethral microwave treatment (TUMT), transurethral needle ablation (TUNA), and transurethral vaporisation (TVP) are minimally invasive techniques that employ heat to decrease prostate tissue.
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), open prostatectomy, and laser treatment are surgical techniques that remove extra prostate tissue to improve urinary problems.
Treatment will be determined by the severity of the symptoms, the size of the prostate gland, and the patient’s general health. A mix of therapies may be advised in some circumstances.
Patients should explore their treatment choices with their healthcare professional in order to identify the best course of action for their unique case.