Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are often the first signs of an enlarged prostate. Prostate enlargement, known medically as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – is a common condition that becomes more likely as men get older.
Causes of enlarged prostate
- Age
- Hormonal changes
- Genetic factors
- Metabolic conditions
Why does the prostate enlarge with age?
As men age, testosterone levels gradually decline, but the activity of certain enzymes (such as 5-alpha-reductase) in the prostate remains steady. This imbalance of testosterone and other hormones promotes prostate growth.