The difference between benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer is one of the most frequent doubts among men over 50 years old. Although both conditions affect the same gland, they have distinct origins, symptoms, and investigation methods. Benign prostate growth is common with advancing age, affecting up to 90% of men throughout their lives, according to a study by Dr. Drauzio Varella.
According to Albert Einstein Hospital, benign hyperplasia corresponds to the non-cancerous enlargement of the organ, associated with aging and hormonal changes, not representing, in itself, a malignant lesion. For urologist Dr. Khaled Ahmed Taha Neto, recognizing these differences is essential to guide the correct diagnosis and avoid misunderstandings about prostate health.
According to the specialist, BPH presents symptoms that appear in the initial phase, classified as irritative, such as dysuria (pain when urinating), pollakiuria (increased urinary frequency), nocturia (need to urinate during the night), and urinary urgency.
