Enlarged prostate is a non-cancerous condition that narrows the urethra (a tube running from the bladder through the prostate gland) and makes eliminating urine more difficult. It affects many men over 50 years old and can be effectively treated by surgery and drugs. The common term for enlarged prostate is BPH, which stands for benign (non-cancerous) prostatic hyperplasia or hypertrophy. BPH is part of the aging process. Symptoms generally appear between ages 55-75. About 10% of all men eventually will require treatment for BPH. BPH is less common in blacks and Asians. The cause of BPH is unknown, but age-related hormonal changes may be a factor. An enlarging prostate gradually obstructs the flow of urine and in time, prevents the bladder from emptying completely at each urination. The urine that collects in the bladder can become infected and lead to stone formation or kidney damage. A man will...