Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Cause

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is probably a normal part of the aging process in men, caused by changes in hormone balance and cell-growth factors. Genetics may also play a role.² This is especially true for severe BPH requiring surgery in men younger than 60.

Men who are older than 50 have a higher chance of developing BPH. But why some men have more severe symptoms than others is not known.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: March 24, 2008
Medical Review:	E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.