How it develops
In newborn boys the prostate is about the size of a pea. It grows very slowly until puberty. Then it doubles in size in a dramatic growth spurt. When a man reaches his 40s it begins to increase in size again. Various hormones control its growth and function. The most important is the male sex hormone, testosterone.
Signs of a problem
The most common sign of a prostate problem is difficulty in passing urine. Changes in the prostate narrow the urethra, the tube which carries urine from the bladder. You might experience:
- a weak flow
- ntermittency – a flow which stops and starts
- hesitancy – having to wait before you start to go
- frequency – having to urinate more often than previously
- urgency – finding it difficult to postpone urination
- nocturia – having to get up at night to urinate
What causes it?
Most theories involve the male hormone testosterone. It's possible that the cells in the prostate gradually become more sensitive to a related hormone, dihydrotestosterone, with ageing. Genetic, dietary or environmental factors may also be involved.
How can I prevent it?
Increase your intake of fruit and vegetables. Cut down on milk, red meat and sources of saturated fat. Consult you doctors or nutritionist.
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