The prostate gland, a small organ in the male reproductive system, is positioned below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube carrying urine and semen. Its primary function is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm, contributing to male fertility.
Prostate Size Across the Lifespan
The prostate undergoes natural changes in size throughout a man’s life. At birth, it is small, comparable to a pea, growing until approximately age 20, reaching 15 to 20 grams. A second growth phase begins around age 25, continuing over most of a man’s life.
From ages 30 to 45, the prostate typically remains stable, weighing 20 to 25 grams, similar to a walnut. After age 40, the prostate gradually enlarges. For men in their 40s, it may weigh 25 to 30 grams; in their 50s, 30 to 40 grams; and by their 60s, 35 to 45 grams. While this growth is a natural part of aging, a prostate volume exceeding 30 cubic centimeters (mL) is often considered significant.
The physiological reasons for this age-related growth are not fully understood, but hormonal changes are believed to play a part. As men age, testosterone levels may decrease, while dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone stimulating prostate growth, can increase. This hormonal shift contributes to the enlargement of prostate cells.
Common Conditions Affecting Prostate Size
Several common conditions can affect prostate size, with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) being the most prevalent. BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, occurring when prostate cells multiply. This enlargement can compress the urethra, leading to urinary symptoms. BPH is common in older men, affecting nearly half over 50 and up to 90% by age 85.
Prostate cancer, on the other hand, involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the prostate. While it can affect prostate size, it does not always lead to noticeable enlargement, especially in its early stages. A large prostate is not necessarily cancerous, nor does a prostate of normal size guarantee the absence of cancer. BPH and prostate cancer are distinct conditions; BPH is not cancerous and does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Care
An enlarged prostate or other prostate issues can manifest through various urinary symptoms. These may include a frequent or urgent need to urinate, especially at night, a weak or interrupted urine stream, and difficulty initiating or stopping urination. Some individuals may also experience the sensation of not being able to fully empty their bladder or have post-urination dribbling. These symptoms typically develop slowly and may worsen gradually over time.
Experiencing such symptoms warrants medical evaluation, as they can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, including prostate cancer, or other issues like urinary tract infections. Regular check-ups are important, particularly for men over 50, or earlier if there is a family history of prostate problems. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms like painful urination, blood in the urine, or an inability to urinate occur.