Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Epidemiology and Risk Factors

Purpose of Review The epidemiology of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) is continuously evolving with an increasing life span and the prevalence of metabolic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. As a result, there is a substantial financial strain on health care. Recent Findings Recent studies and clinical trials have strengthened the relationship of known risk factors of BPH and LUTS. These include metabolic syndrome, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and elevated serum dihydrotestosterone. Excessive consumption of red meat, saturated fat, bread, poultry, and starch was positively associated with symptomatic LUTS. Efforts to enhance treatment adherence, a healthy diet, and moderate physical exercise were noted as factors that can improve the treatment and management of BPH and LUTS. BPH is a prevalent condition among aging men. As it becomes a clinical entity through the development of LUTS, it significantly reduces the quality of life of those affected through sub-optimal bladder storage, voiding difficulties, and sexual dysfunctions. Many of the risk factors for BPH and LUTS can be reduced through moderate to intense physical exercise and consumption of dietary ss-carotene, polyunsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid, zinc, and vitamin A and C.