Types of benign (non-cancerous) prostate problems

There are clinical conditions of the prostate gland that are not cancer, including the following:

•    Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or benign prostatic hypertrophy - a specific term that defines the condition of an enlarged prostate. BPH is the most common non-cancerous prostate problem. It can cause discomfort and problems urinating. Although it is not cancer, BPH symptoms are often similar to those of prostate cancer.
•    Impotence (also called erectile dysfunction) - the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for intercourse.
•    Prostatalgia - pain in the prostate gland.
•    Prostatitis - an inflamed condition of the prostate gland that may be accompanied by discomfort, pain, frequent or infrequent urination, and, sometimes, fever.
•    Prostatism - any condition of the prostate that causes interference with the flow of urine from the bladder.
•    Urinary incontinence - the loss of bladder control.

These problems are quite common and may happen to men of all ages.

The goal of the Prostate Cancer Center at Saint Joseph’s is to create an environment where men and their partners can become educated about the many options available in the treatment of benign prostate problems prior to making a decision so they may make the best choice for both their medical and social needs. Contact our Patient Navigator at (678) 843-5665 or e-mail rsevy@sjha.org to learn more.

Information on this page is provided collaboratively by the team at the Prostate Cancer Center at Saint Joseph's and has been medically reviewed by Rajesh G. Laungani, MD, 2010. Claims regarding treatment are based on years of clinical experience and industry reported data. The PCC follows American Urological Association and  National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Clinical Practice Guidelines for the treatment of prostate cancer.

Last Updated: October 26, 2010 (RSH)