Can Benign Enlarged Prostate Become Cancerous?
The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. An enlarged prostate is an increase in the size of the prostate, and can occur due to a variety of conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While an enlarged prostate can result in a variety of symptoms, such as difficulty urinating, it is not cancerous. However, in rare cases, an enlarged prostate can become cancerous.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which the prostate gland enlarges, reducing the size of the urethra and causing difficulty with urination. BPH is a common condition in aging men, and is not cancerous. However, if left untreated, the symptoms of BPH can become more severe, leading to complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and bladder damage.
Cancerous Prostate Enlargement
Although it is rare, an enlarged prostate can become cancerous. Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate begin to grow and divide uncontrollably. These cells can spread to other parts of the body, causing serious health problems. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States, and it is important to seek early detection and treatment to reduce the risk of complications.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
Certain risk factors can increase a man's chances of developing prostate cancer. These include being over the age of 65, having a family history of prostate cancer, being of African-American descent, and having a diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables. Prostate cancer can also be caused by a combination of lifestyle factors such as smoking, being overweight, and not getting enough exercise.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you have an enlarged prostate, it is important to speak to your doctor about your risk of developing prostate cancer. Your doctor may recommend a digital rectal exam (DRE) to check the size and shape of your prostate, as well as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to measure the levels of PSA in your blood. If your doctor suspects prostate cancer, they may recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for prostate cancer, such as surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy, will depend on the stage and severity of the cancer.
An enlarged prostate can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but it is not usually cancerous. However, it is important to speak to your doctor about your risk for prostate cancer if you have an enlarged prostate, so that you can get the appropriate tests and treatment if needed.