Breaking the silence on a common prostate condition affecting 1 in 2 Aussie men aged 50+

Ever heard of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), aka an ‘enlarged prostate’?

The condition affects more than 2.8 million Australian men aged 50+ years, yet is concerningly, under-diagnosed and under-treated.

An enlarged prostate occurs when the prostate gland, located below the bladder, surrounding the urethra, grows over time. Despite its high prevalence, many men remain unaware of it, until it starts to compromise their physical, mental and social health and wellbeing.

Fortunately, new Aussie research is shining a light on this serious, progressive, yet treatable condition.
According to the new research, between 50-60 per cent of men aged in their 60s, and an alarming 80-90 per cent of men aged in their 70s, are currently living with an enlarged prostate. However, only 16 per cent of men aged 50+ with symptoms have received a formal diagnosis, demonstrating a significant gap in awareness and treatment of the condition.

Although an enlarged prostate is not cancerous, its affect on a man’s day-to-day life can prove profound. The symptoms of the condition also worsen with age. More than one in two (58 per cent) of men with an enlarged prostate report frequent urges to urinate, while 61 per cent experience regular nighttime bathroom trips, which disrupt their sleep, and subsequent daily routines.

To learn more about the symptoms of living with an enlarged prostate watch Director of Uro-Oncology, and Head of Robotic Surgery, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, and Urology Department Head, Blacktown Mount Druitt Hospital, Professor Henry Woo’s explanatory video below.

Urological and Robotic Surgeon at St Vincent’s and Epworth Hospitals, Dr Kapil Sethi, Melbourne, said an enlarged prostate can seriously affect a man’s quality of life.

“BPH is one of the most common health conditions affecting men over 50 years of age.

“This non-cancerous condition of the prostate leads to gradual difficulties urinating, and affects quality of life,” said Dr Sethi.

Watch the short video below featuring S100 GP and Senior University Lecturer, Dr Ethan, Brisbane, explaining the impact of living with an enlarged prostate on his overall quality of life.

Beyond physical discomfort, an enlarged prostate can also trigger anxiety, depression, and stress, particularly for those men (53 per cent) who report feeling anxious about their proximity to the nearest toilet.

“I just knew something wasn’t right. I was getting concerned about the frequency with which I was going to the toilet, and my weak flow,” said former cabinet maker, Glenn, 64, Sydney.

“I chose to tolerate my symptoms until they began to seriously interrupt my life. That’s when I knew I had to act.”

Despite the significant impact on an enlarged prostate on the lives of so many Australian men, many concerningly, choose not to seek medical help.

Canterbury Hospital Urology Department Head, Dr Dinesh Patel, Sydney, explains an enlarged prostate is treatable, yet many men delay seeking treatment.

“Over four in five men (83 per cent) are open to seeking treatment, but fewer than 40 per cent actually follow through.”

In fact, one in five men experiencing enlarged prostate symptoms, wait six months or longer before seeking medical help.

This treatment seeking delay however, carries serious consequences.

Consultant Urological Surgeon, and an expert in minimally invasive treatments, Mr Tony De Sousa, Melbourne, says untreated symptoms can lead to urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and kidney damage. For this reason, he advised early intervention is crucial for managing an enlarged prostate and preventing further complications.

Father-to-two, William, 57, Adelaide, was diagnosed with an enlarged prostate after experiencing severe lower urinary tract symptoms.

“That evening, I had drunk about six beers before feeling a sudden urge to urinate. But when I got to the bathroom, I couldn’t go. I was in a world of pain. I’ll never forget it.

“I was curled up in a foetal position, trying to get some relief, it was awful,” William said.

For electrical technician and father-to-three who endured enlarged prostate symptoms for almost 10 years Patrick, 59, Perth experienced frequent urination, incomplete bladder emptying, disrupted sleep and bowel movements. His condition further strained his relationship with his wife.

Sadly, many men like Patrick suffer in silence due to the stigma weighing heavily on men’s health-related issues. He therefore, has some words of wisdom he wishes to share with other Australian men.

“Don’t jeopardise your health. Monitor your symptoms, keep a record of any changes, and if things seem odd, visit your GP straight away.”

Fortunately, an enlarged prostate is treatable, and effective treatment options, including minimally invasive, are available.

St Andrew’s Hospital Specialist Urologist, Dr James Aspinall, Adelaide, has more than 30 years’ experience in his field, and focuses on treating an enlarged prostate and urinary incontinence.

“As the prostate grows, it causes obstruction and can block the bladder, resulting in a need to urinate frequently, and disrupting urine outflow,” Dr Aspinall said.

Retired Chief Information Officer who experienced enlarged prostate symptoms Ray, 75, Brisbane, lived with enlarged prostate symptoms for over a year. Eventually seeking treatment helped transform his life.

“It’s important to be aware of, and educated about all available treatment options for an enlarged prostate,” said Ray.

If you’re a man aged 50+ years, and are experiencing any symptoms of an enlarged prostate, don’t bury your head in the sand.

Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your quality of life, and prevent further, associated health complications.

Talking to your GP is the first step toward taking control of your health.

“There are a number of non-operative and minimally invasive options to treat BPH and restore a healthy lifestyle,” Dr Sethi said.

Prostate health is too important to ignore.

To learn more about an enlarged prostate, its symptoms & impact on on quality of life, watch the short videos below featuring, experts & patients reflecting on the condition.