Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

As men grow older, the prostate gland tends to increase in size, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). About 50% of men over age 60 and 90% of men over age 85 experience this problem (Davidson & Chutka, 2008; Pisco, 2011). The enlarged gland tends to put pressure on the urethra, thus decreasing urine flow. If this problem is severe, surgery or medications can help (Edwards, 2008; Keister & Neal, 2008). Recently, a minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to the prostate has been shown to be an effective treatment for BPH (Pisco, 2011).