Enlarged Prostate
July 1, 2024
This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Wesley Yip, M.D., assistant professor, Division of Urology and Urologic Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte
An enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is common in older men. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that surrounds the urethra. It starts at the base of the bladder and runs through the middle of the prostate. Over time, an enlarged prostate can stop or slow urine flow, causing bladder and kidney problems.
As men age, the prostate grows. Sometimes, it can grow into the urethra, making the opening narrower. BPH, also called benign prostatic hypertrophy, is relatively common, affecting more than 80% of men over the age of 80 and 8% of men 31 to 40 years old.
Men who have an enlarged prostate may experience changes in urination, such as frequent urination, a weak urine stream and difficulty starting urination. These symptoms may lead to complications in the bladder, urinary tract or kidneys.
Several methods may be used to diagnose an enlarged prostate. These include symptom score sheets, flow rate tests, postvoid residual measurement, cystoscopy, prostate volume measurements, prostate-specific antigen tests and urine culture.
Working together with a urologist, patients can develop a personalized BPH treatment plan based on their preferences, prostate size and overall health. The care plan may include lifestyle changes, medications or surgery. Surgical or image-guided therapy options may include procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), prostatectomy or prostate artery embolization.
City of Hope maintains an extensive list of resources about enlarged prostate, treatments and health maintenance, including support services within our treatment locations as well as outside resources.
Our Enlarged Prostate Expertise
City of Hope is a nationally recognized leader in researching and treating urologic cancers and has been named by U.S. News & World Report as one of America's top urology and cancer hospitals.
Just as no two patients are alike, an enlarged prostate requires a personalized treatment plan to obtain the best possible outcomes. City of Hope's renowned physicians and researchers utilize the latest technology and innovation to treat urologic conditions, coupled with our enduring belief in providing unparalleled compassionate care.
As a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, our doctors also help develop and improve evidence-based treatment guidelines for patients throughout the country.
Our developments in the areas of breakthrough treatments, bone marrow transplants and CAR T cell therapy are recognized internationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to care.