Clinical Definition

Benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH is a condition marked by a non-cancerous proliferation of cells, both smooth muscle and epithelial, in the prostate gland’s transition zone. Lower urinary tract symptoms accompany the hyperplasia. Diagnosis is made by medical history, physical exam, and tests, including urinalysis. Treatments include watchful waiting, medication and surgery.

In Our Own Words

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, the walnut-sized gland below the bladder that carries urine from the bladder out through the penis. The prostate produces fluid for the semen.