preventing prostate

Overview

The prostate is a small gland in men that is part of the reproductive and urinary systems. It wraps around the tube that carries urine out of the body. Prostate problems can include an enlarged prostate, inflammation, or cancer. This article explains what you can do to look after your prostate and catch problems early.

Yes. Conditions like an enlarged prostate are among the most common health issues for men over 50. Prostate cancer is also one of the most common cancers in men, but most men with prostate problems do not have cancer.

Only people assigned male at birth have a prostate. Prostate problems mainly affect men over 40, and the risk increases with age. Family history and certain lifestyle factors can also play a role.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
• Difficulty starting or stopping the flow of urine
• A weak or interrupted urine stream
• A feeling that your bladder is not completely empty
• Pain or burning during urination
• Discomfort in the pelvic area
• Blood in the urine or semen

Symptoms in children

• Prostate problems are very rare in children. If a boy has urinary symptoms, they are usually caused by other issues like a urinary tract infection or an anatomical problem. Any urinary symptoms in a child should be checked by a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older men are more likely to have an enlarged prostate, which can cause slow urination and frequent trips to the bathroom at night.
• Prostate cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages, so regular checkups become more important as you age.
• Falls or confusion can sometimes be a sign of a severe urinary infection, so seniors need prompt medical attention for these changes.

Causes

Main causes

• Age-related changes in hormone levels, which cause the prostate to grow
• Inflammation or infection of the prostate (prostatitis)
• Genetic changes that can lead to prostate cancer
• Possible lifestyle factors like smoking, heavy drinking, and a diet high in processed foods

Risk factors

• Having a father or brother with prostate cancer
• Being over 50 years old
• Being of Black African or Caribbean descent – this group has a higher risk of prostate cancer
• Obesity or a lack of physical activity
• A diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Go to urgent care or call your doctor the same day if you have painful urination, visible blood in your urine, or you cannot empty your bladder.
• If you have a fever with any urinary symptom, get medical help that day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Talk to your doctor about prostate health during your regular check-up, especially if you are over 50.
• Have a conversation about whether prostate cancer screening is right for you, particularly if you have risk factors.
• See your doctor if you notice any changes in urination, even if they seem small.

Diagnosis

A doctor may ask about your symptoms, do a physical examination, and order tests. A blood test called PSA (prostate-specific antigen) measures a protein made by the prostate. Sometimes a doctor will do a digital rectal exam to feel the size and texture of the prostate. If needed, a urine sample or imaging can help rule out other causes.

Tests that may be done

• PSA blood test – a higher level may indicate infection, enlargement, or cancer
• Digital rectal exam (DRE) – the doctor uses a gloved finger to check the prostate
• Urine test – to look for infection or blood
• Imaging such as an ultrasound or MRI – to get a clearer picture of the prostate
• Prostate biopsy – a small sample of tissue is taken if cancer is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

Most prostate checks are quick and cause little discomfort. You will usually get blood and urine results within hours or days. A biopsy result may take a week or more. Your doctor will explain what the results mean and discuss the next steps with you.

Treatment

Treatment for prostate problems depends on the cause. An enlarged prostate may be managed with lifestyle changes or medication. Inflammation can be treated with antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medicines. Prostate cancer treatment may include active surveillance, radiation, or surgery, depending on how fast the cancer may grow and your overall health.

Self-care at home

• Drink enough water but reduce fluids in the evening to lessen trips to the bathroom
• Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods if they irritate your bladder
• Avoid holding urine for long periods
• Practice pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles that control urination
• Do not take over-the-counter cold medicines with decongestants, as these can worsen urinary symptoms

Medical treatments

Medications can help relax the prostate muscle or shrink the prostate over time. For prostate cancer, hormone therapy or chemotherapy may be used in certain situations. Your doctor will recommend a plan based on your specific diagnosis, age, and preferences. Always ask about the possible benefits and side effects.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is considered if an enlarged prostate causes severe symptoms that do not improve with medication, or if prostate cancer is aggressive and has spread. Surgical options range from minimally invasive procedures to complete removal of the prostate. Your doctor will explain what is best for your situation.

Living with this condition

Many prostate problems can be managed day to day. Keep your bladder healthy by urinating when you feel the urge, and take time to fully empty. Plan ahead when traveling – know where restrooms are. If you are being treated for prostate cancer, follow your treatment plan and attend follow-up appointments.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay physically active – ask your doctor what level is safe for you
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your urinary system
• Stop smoking, and limit alcohol intake
• Learn relaxation techniques to manage stress, which can make symptoms worse
• Talk to your partner or family about how you are feeling – you do not have to manage alone

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Some research suggests that tomatoes, broccoli, and foods with healthy fats may support prostate health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days, like brisk walking or swimming. If you are overweight, losing even a few pounds can help urinary symptoms.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Dealing with urinary symptoms or a cancer diagnosis can be stressful. You may feel anxious or embarrassed. These feelings are normal, and talking to your doctor about them is important. If you have persistent low mood or anxiety, ask for referral to a counselor or support group.

Prevention

You cannot completely prevent prostate problems like enlargement or cancer, but a healthy lifestyle may lower your risk. Eating well, being active, and staying at a healthy weight are your best steps. Screening can help find problems early, when they are easier to treat.

Vaccines

There is currently no vaccine for prostate problems. However, staying up to date with routine vaccines, such as for flu and COVID-19, can help you avoid infections that could affect your urinary system.

Screening programmes

Prostate cancer screening is a personal choice. Doctors do not recommend PSA testing for every man automatically. Talk to your doctor about your risk, the benefits and harms, and the right timing for you. In the UK, the NHS offers PSA testing to men who ask for it, after a discussion about the pros and cons.

Complications

If left untreated

• Urinary retention – the sudden inability to urinate, which is a medical emergency
• Repeated urinary tract infections
• Bladder stones
• Kidney damage caused by back-pressure from an enlarged prostate
• For prostate cancer – spread of the cancer to bones or other organs if not detected early

Long-term outlook

Most prostate problems are treated successfully, especially when caught early. Many men live long, full lives with prostate enlargement or even localized prostate cancer. The outlook depends on the type of problem, your general health, and how quickly you seek care. With the right support, you can manage symptoms and stay active.

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