How Does Prostate Size Change with Age?

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Detailed Solution

The prostate gland typically grows throughout a man’s life, but the rate and pattern of growth vary with age.

At birth, the prostate is very small, about the size of a pea.
During puberty, it grows rapidly under the influence of male hormones (testosterone and dihydrotestosterone).
After the age of 40, a second phase of growth often occurs, leading to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).

Age-related changes:

Young Men (Below 40): Normal prostate size is about 20 grams, roughly the size of a walnut.
Middle Age (40–60): The gland gradually enlarges, sometimes doubling in size.
Older Age (60+): Enlargement can become significant, pressing against the urethra and bladder neck, causing urinary issues such as weak flow, frequent urination, or nocturia (night urination).

This enlargement is non-cancerous but can impact quality of life. Hormonal changes, particularly increased activity of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are thought to drive this growth.

Thus, prostate size naturally increases with age, and periodic medical check-ups help monitor for BPH or cancer.

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