Understanding Prostate Changes by Age

The prostate gland changes size as a man ages. The first change comes in the early years of puberty where the prostate doubles in size. Then again in a man’s mid-twenties, the prostate begins to grow again, slower this time but continuous throughout the rest of his life. At 20, the prostate is the size of a walnut. At 40, it is the size of an apricot. At 60, it can grow to the size of a lemon.

The prostate gland grows larger as men age and pushes against the bladder and can squeeze the urethra, causing problems passing urine. Growing older raises your risk of prostate problems. The three most common prostate problems are:

• Prostatitis (Infection)
• Enlarged prostate
• Prostate cancer

Prostate Cancer Factors

There are a few factors that affect your chances of getting prostate cancer. They are:

• Age: men 50 and older run the highest risk
• Race: African-American men typically get prostate cancer in higher numbers
• Family medical history: If your father or brother has prostate cancer, your risk increases
• Diet: Fatty food with few fruits and vegetables makes you more susceptible

Prostate Cancer Symptoms

At the beginning, prostate cancer shows no symptoms. As it grows, you may experience trouble urinating or feel the need to urinate often (mostly at night). Other symptoms include pain or burning during urination, blood in the urine or semen, pain the back, hips, or pelvis, or painful ejaculation.

Prostate Changes That Are Not Cancer

There are several prostate conditions that are not prostate cancer including prostatitis – an inflammation of the prostate gland resulting from infection and benign prostatic hyperplasia – abnormal cell growth that leads to an enlarged prostate.

You can lessen the severity of prostate problems and ward of prostate problems with lifestyle modifications. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and minimal alcohol are important. The supplement Super Beta Prostate helps control prostate swelling. Treating health disorders such as high blood pressure or diabetes that lead to changes in urinary function may prevent problems in the prostate. If you’re over 50, pay close attention to your urinary habits and make lifestyle modifications as necessary.