What Is BPH?
3. Statistics
BPH is a common condition that has been estimated to affect the quality of life in 33% of men who are above the age of 50. By the age of 85 years old, BPH may be present in up to 90% of men. In the United States, clinical BPH affects as many as 14 million men; while globally, it affects approximately 30 million men. Although the prevalence of BPH among African American men and Caucasian men are similar, the condition is generally more severe and progressive in African American men.
This has been postulated to be due to the higher testosterone levels, androgen receptor expression, 5-alpha-reductase activity, and growth factor activity. This increased activity results in a higher rate of prostate hyperplasia and enlargement of the gland.
Advertisement
