Why Does the Prostate Grow?

Prostate growth is a common condition in men, especially after the age of 40 or 50. Although it often causes concern, in most cases it is not related to cancer, but rather to a natural process of male aging. To better understand it, let’s first look at what the prostate is and then explore why it increases in size.

What Is the Prostate and What Is Its Function?

The prostate is a gland about the size of a walnut that is part of the male reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine and semen pass.

Its main function is to produce a fluid that forms part of semen, helping to nourish and protect sperm.

Main Reasons Why the Prostate Grows

1. Hormonal Changes With Age

The most common cause of prostate growth is hormonal imbalance that occurs over time.
Although testosterone levels gradually decrease, the influence of a hormone derived from it, called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), increases. This hormone stimulates the growth of prostate cells.

This process can lead to what is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous but very common condition.

2. Natural Aging

Prostate growth is so closely linked to age that many specialists consider it a normal part of male aging. Statistically:

• More than 50% of men over the age of 60 have some degree of prostate enlargement.
• After the age of 80, this percentage exceeds 80%.

3. Genetic Factors

If there is a family history of prostate problems, the risk of developing prostate enlargement increases.
Genetics can influence both the age of onset and the severity of symptoms.

4. Lifestyle and Habits

Certain habits can contribute to or worsen prostate growth:

• Sedentary lifestyle
• Overweight or obesity
• Diet high in saturated fats and low in fiber
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking

Although these factors are not always the direct cause, they do influence the progression of the condition.

5. Prostate Inflammation (Prostatitis)

Chronic inflammation of the prostate can cause an increase in its size and urinary symptoms.
In some cases, repeated or poorly treated infections contribute to prostate enlargement.

What Symptoms Can Prostate Growth Cause?

When the prostate increases in size, it can compress the urethra and make it difficult for urine to pass. The most common symptoms include:

• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak urine stream
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night
• Dribbling at the end of urination

Is Prostate Growth Cancer?

Not necessarily.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer are different conditions, although they can coexist. That is why regular medical checkups are essential, especially from the age of 45–50 onward.