Enlarged Prostate Vs Prostate Cancer: What’s the Difference?

In the department of urology prostate cancer is one of the common topics brought up by many male patients as this is one of the most common types of cancer that affects men. 

This condition known as prostate cancer has affected millions of men worldwide and is the main concern of cancer issues in men. 

Here in this blog let us delve into the difference between an enlarged prostate cancer and a prostate cancer and how it can be treated. But before we delve into the differences let us understand what prostate cancer is. 

Overview of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer refers to malignancy (cancer) that develops in the prostate, a small gland in males resembling the shape of a walnut. This gland is responsible for producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and facilitates the transport of sperm.

It is among the most prevalent forms of cancer. Many instances of prostate cancer progress slowly and remain localized within the prostate gland, often resulting in minimal harm. However, certain variants of prostate cancer are more aggressive and can metastasize rapidly.

Early detection of prostate cancer, particularly when it is still limited to the prostate gland, significantly enhances the likelihood of effective treatment.

Enlarged Prostate Vs Prostate Cancer

Enlarged prostate commonly also known as Both benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer impacts the prostate gland, which is a walnut-sized organ located beneath a man’s bladder. 

In both conditions, the prostate gland enlarges. BPH is a non-cancerous (benign) condition, meaning it does not involve cancer and does not have the potential to metastasize (spread from one body part to another). In contrast, prostate cancer can spread to other areas of the body.

As individuals age, it is common to observe changes in the prostate, one of which is BPH, characterized by a gradual increase in prostate size. This enlargement can exert pressure on the bladder, leading to urinary difficulties. BPH is not malignant and may not necessitate any treatment in certain instances.

But on the other hand prostate cancer arises when malignant cells develop within the prostate tissues. While many prostate cancers progress slowly and can be monitored through active surveillance, some cases may require more intensive interventions, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgical procedures.

Also Read:- Chemotherapy for prostate cancer

Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate Vs Prostate Cancer

Certain symptoms are shared by both enlarged prostate and prostate cancer, including:

– Frequent or urgent need to urinate, mostly at night

– Challenges with urination

– A weak, slow, or interrupted urine stream

– Discomfort during urination or ejaculation

Additional symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate include:

– Dribbling after urination

– Unusual odor or color of urine

– A sensation of incomplete bladder emptying

– Straining or pushing to urinate

On the other hand, some symptoms specific to prostate cancer are:

– A burning sensation during urination

– Blood in urine or semen

– Persistent pain in the pelvic area, hips, back, or bones.

Causes of Enlarged Prostate Vs Prostate Cancer

Many patients express concern regarding benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) due to its association with prostate growth, which can initially evoke thoughts of prostate cancer. However, it is crucial to understand the distinction: prostate cancer is characterized by the proliferation of abnormal (cancerous) cells, whereas BPH involves the enlargement of normal, healthy prostate cells.

The enlargement associated with BPH is influenced by factors such as aging, genetics, and fluctuations in hormone levels, including testosterone, estrogen, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is entirely normal for the prostate to increase in size as one age. By age 40, the prostate typically expands from the size of a walnut to that of an apricot; by age 60, it can grow to the size of a lemon.

Risk factors: Enlarged Prostate Vs. Prostate Cancer

Individuals with a prostate are at risk of developing either enlarged prostate or prostate cancer. While there are certain risk factors that can elevate the likelihood of developing these conditions, they do not overlap completely.

Enlarged prostate typically occurs more frequently in men over the ae of 40 and prostate cancer at the age of 50. The likelihood of experiencing this condition increases for those who have:

• A family history 
• A lack of physical activity  
• Erectile dysfunction  
• Cardiovascular disease  
• Obesity  
• Type 2 diabetes.

Prostate cancer typically occurs in patients over the age of 50, as it tends to grow slowly, often leading to symptoms that may go unnoticed for an extended period. Other risk factors for prostate cancer can include race as by date African-Americans face the greatest risk, followed by white, Hispanic, and Native American populations. Additionally, diets can also be a risk factor in prostate cancer patients. 

Difference Between Enlarged Prostate Vs Prostate Cancer

Enlarged prostate and prostate cancer are fundamentally different conditions with distinct causes, yet they share similar symptoms. It is essential to consult a physician for a comprehensive evaluation to establish an accurate diagnosis.

Healthcare professionals usually perform a digital rectal examination of the prostate, where a gloved finger is inserted into the rectum to assess for tenderness, abnormal enlargement, or other irregularities. Additionally, the doctor may request a urine analysis, blood tests, imaging studies, or assessments to evaluate the patient’s ability to retain or release urine.

If the findings are inconclusive, the doctor will proceed with a prostate biopsy to either confirm or exclude the presence of prostate cancer. This procedure involves removing a small tissue sample from the prostate for examination for cancerous cells.

In cases where a patient is diagnosed with an enlarged prostate, the doctor reassures that this condition is typically benign and may not necessitate treatment. Nevertheless, the doctor monitors the patient’s enlarged prostate and keeps track of any evolving symptoms. In rare cases, an enlarged prostate can lead to complications such as urinary retention, urinary tract infections, damage to the bladder or kidneys, or the formation of bladder stones.

Diagnosis For Both

Both conditions impact the prostate gland, leading to the use of several common diagnostic tests. The Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) test measures the level of PSA protein in the gland, with elevated levels potentially signaling enlarged prostate or cancer.

Additionally, physicians perform a digital rectal exam to evaluate the prostate’s condition.

Depending on your health status and the outcomes of these initial tests, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing to clarify the diagnosis. Tests for enlarged prostate include the urinary flow test and post-void residual test, while prostate cancer assessments may involve ultrasound, biopsy, and other procedures.

What Are the Treatments for Prostate Cancer?

Some patients choose to delay treatment for enlarged prostate/BPH if their symptoms are manageable. However, if an enlarged prostate significantly impacts a patient’s quality of life, pursuing treatment can be beneficial. Available options include:

Lifestyle modifications

Reducing liquid intake, particularly alcohol and caffeine, before outings or bedtime can help minimize frequent bathroom visits. Additionally, bladder training to extend the time between urination and pelvic floor exercises may provide relief.

Medications

There are prescription options that can either reduce the size of the prostate or inhibit its growth. Other medications may assist in relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, facilitating easier urine flow. Common recommendations include alpha blockers, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, or a combination of these medications.

Minimally invasive techniques

Certain procedures can eliminate excess prostate tissue or expand the urethra, alleviating blockages and improving urine flow. If lifestyle changes or medications do not yield sufficient results, doctors may consider these alternatives. Advanced procedures, such as Aquablation and HoLEP, are not widely available in many local health systems.

Surgery

In cases where symptoms are severe or have led to bladder damage, the doctor may explore surgical options to remove part or all of the prostate or widen the urethra through incisions. You can also read about prostatectomy surgery ( a surgical procedure that is used to remove the prostate gland, either partially or completely).

Take Away

Prostate health is an important issue for numerous men, especially as they grow older. The two primary conditions that impact the prostate are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly referred to as an enlarged prostate, and prostate cancer. It is imortant to recognize the distinctions between these enlarged prostate and prostate cancer as it is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

In conclusion, although enlarged prostate and prostate cancer both impact the prostate gland and exhibit similar symptoms, they are inherently different conditions with unique treatment and health implications. It is essential for men to participate in routine health screenings and communicate any concerns with their healthcare provider to maintain optimal prostate health.