Both benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer are common conditions affecting men, especially as they age. While they both can cause similar symptoms, it’s crucial to understand the differences between these two conditions to receive the appropriate treatment.

BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)

BPH is a non-cancerous condition characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland. This enlargement can put pressure on the urethra, causing urinary symptoms.

Common BPH Symptoms:

• Frequent urination: Feeling the need to urinate more often than usual.
• Urgency: A sudden, strong urge to urinate that’s difficult to resist.
• Weak urine flow: A slow or weak stream of urine.
• Hesitancy: Difficulty starting or stopping the flow of urine.
• Nocturia: Getting up multiple times during the night to urinate.
• Incomplete emptying: Feeling like you haven’t fully emptied your bladder.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a malignant condition where abnormal cells grow and multiply in the prostate gland. While it may not always cause symptoms in the early stages, as the cancer progresses, it can lead to:

Common Prostate Cancer Symptoms:

• Urinary symptoms: Similar to BPH, including frequent urination, urgency, weak urine flow, hesitancy, nocturia, and incomplete emptying.
• Blood in urine: A sign of more advanced prostate cancer.
• Pain or discomfort: In the pelvic area, especially when sitting or during ejaculation.
• Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
• Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of advanced prostate cancer.

How to Tell the Difference

While some symptoms overlap, there are key differences between BPH and prostate cancer:

• Age: BPH is more common in men over the age of 50, while prostate cancer is more prevalent in men over the age of 65.
• Symptoms: While both conditions can cause urinary symptoms, prostate cancer may also lead to blood in the urine, pain, erectile dysfunction, and unexplained weight loss.
• Prostate Ultrasound: Here at New York Medicine Doctors, we use this imaging test to create pictures of the prostate gland using sound waves. This helps us confirm abnormalities like enlarged areas or masses and guide biopsies for tissue sampling.
• PSA Test: A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the level of PSA in the blood. Elevated PSA levels can be a sign of BPH or prostate cancer, but further testing is needed to determine the cause.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for both BPH and prostate cancer.