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The prostate is a golf-ball-sized gland located below the bladder in men. Problems with the prostate appear as men grow older.

What conditions affect it?

Two common conditions occur in the prostate gland in older men:

1. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This is the normal enlarging of the prostate with age which affects more than 60% of men over 60. The enlarged prostate can obstruct the passage of urine from the bladder.

2. Prostate cancer. This is the most common cancer in men and is a slow growing tumour. The risk of prostate cancer increases with age.

How do I know if I have prostate trouble?

Common prostate symptoms are:

·       Difficulty or delay starting urination (having a “wee”)

·       A weak urinary stream and dribbling after passing urine

·       Being unable to empty the bladder completely

·       Passing urine more often at night

·       Frequent daytime urination

·       Sudden strong urges to urinate

Is prostate cancer usually the cause of difficulty passing urine?

No. In most cases this is due to BPH. Prostate cancer usually does not cause symptoms in the early stages.

Should healthy men have routine prostate checks?

This is controversial. Many experts do not recommend routine prostate checks in healthy men without symptoms. There is no evidence that finding and treating prostate cancer early has any benefit.

However, any difficulties passing urine should be reported. The prostate is examined in the surgery by a “rectal examination”. A gloved finger is inserted into the rectum (back passage) and the prostate can be felt. A blood test called the prostate specific antigen test (PSA) is also used to detect prostate cancer.

Disclaimer:

Please note this information was correct at time of printing.

For up to date information, speak to your doctor.

Source: Winter 1997 Edition | Page 2

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Common questions about the prostate