Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as prostate enlargement, is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. This condition commonly affects elderly males, with about 40% of men over 60 experiencing BPH. The risk increases with age. The exact cause of BPH is not fully understood, but it may relate to changes in sex hormone balances as men age. This growth can eventually lead to urinary flow obstruction.

Normal to BPH comparison

BPH may present with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), including:

• Weakened urinary stream
• Difficulty initiating urination
• Intermittent urinary flow
• Straining to urinate
• Urinary urgency
• Increased frequency of urination, including nocturia (nighttime urination)
• Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
• Post-void dribbling
  

It is important to note that these symptoms can also result from other conditions, such as urinary stones, infections, overactive bladder, or prostate/bladder cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor for further assessment.

Diagnosis typically involves: 

• Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): The doctor assesses the prostate size and checks for irregularities via the rectum
• Bedside ultrasound scan: To estimate prostate size
• Urine sample: To rule out infection
• Uroflowmetry: To evaluate urine flow
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test: To check PSA antigen levels, aiding in distinguishing BPH from prostate cancer

• Associate Professor Edmund Chiong
• Assistant Professor David Consigliere
• Professor Kesavan Esuvaranathan
• Associate Professor Tiong Ho Yee
• Assistant Professor Chua Wei Jin
• Assistant Professor Benjamin Goh
• Dr Melissa Tay Hui Wen
• Assistant Professor Lu Jirong
  
• Dr Kelven Chen
  
• Dr Wang Ziting
  
• Dr Chia Jun Yang
• Dr Chong Weiliang
• Dr Arshvin Kesavan