If you are a male and turning 50, it is time to focus on an increasingly important aspect of your overall well-being. Prostate health after 50 is something that should not be ignored.
Around 50% of men over 50 will be having prostate issues in India. Medical conditions like Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer are two common concerns after 50. Coincidentally, there are many overlapping symptoms between the two, making it difficult to distinguish between them.
Since timely diagnosis is the key to proper management of these conditions, you need to understand the symptoms of BPH vs prostate cancer. It is also recommended that you consult with a leading urologist for prostate issues.
Why Prostate Health After 50 Matters?
The prostate gland naturally enlarges with age.
Enlarged prostate symptoms includes difficulty starting urination or stopping, weak flow, and frequent urination. However, these symptoms can also indicate prostate cancer. As per
prostate screening guidelines, men over 50 are recommended regular check-ups, and earlier if there is a family history of prostate cancer.
BPH vs Prostate Cancer: Key Differences
1. Nature of the Medical Problem
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: This is marked by prostate enlargement, which is non-cancerous. It does not spread beyond the gland and is not life-threatening.
- Prostate Cancer: This is marked by cancerous tumours where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably. Just like in other types of cancers, malignancy can spread to other organs if left untreated.
2. Symptoms
Both conditions usually cause
urinary symptoms in men. However, there are differences, even though subtle.
- BPH: Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night, dribbling of urine, difficulty starting urination, weak urine stream, and bladder not completely emptying.
- Prostate Cancer Signs: The symptoms are often silent in the early stages. When symptoms start to show, this may include difficulty in urination, blood in urine or semen, pelvic bone pain (in advanced stages), and erectile dysfunction.
3. Risk Factors
- BPH: Old people and males with hormonal changes experience enlarged prostate symptoms. Nearly all men experience some prostate enlargement with age.
- Prostate Cancer: Males with a family history, genetic, and lifestyle factors are at risk. Also, risks increase with age.
4. Diagnosis and Screening
- BPH: Prostate enlargement is usually diagnosed by a urologist for prostate issues through physical examination and reviewing medical history. An ultrasound or urine flow tests may also be advised.
- Prostate Cancer: As per prostate screening guidelines, specific tests like Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood tests, digital rectal exams, and, if needed, biopsies are advised.
Importance of Screening For Prostate Health After 50
As per
prostate screening guidelines, timely and regular screening are vital. This is because early detection of prostate cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Regular screenings also help differentiate between BPH and cancer, reducing anxiety and guiding proper treatment.
When to See a Urologist For Prostate Issues?
Prostate health after 50 should be a top priority for you. This is because men aged 50 or older are prone to experiencing urinary symptoms naturally. A urologist is a specialist in this domain. They will not only physically examine you and recommend tests but also provide clarity and recommend the right course of action, depending on the condition detected.
Maintaining
prostate health after 50 means regular check-ups and following
prostate screening guidelines. It also means speaking with a urologist to understand the symptoms of
BPH vs prostate cancer.
