What risk is increased due to prostatic hypertrophy?

Prostatic hypertrophy, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland, which can cause various urinary symptoms due to its pressure on the urethra. One of the primary complications associated with this condition is the increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and acute urinary retention.

When the prostate gland enlarges, it can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to incomplete bladder emptying. This residual urine provides a conducive environment for bacteria, thereby increasing the likelihood of urinary infections. Moreover, the obstruction can also lead to acute urinary retention, a condition where a person is unable to urinate even though their bladder is full, which can be a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

In contrast, while there are associations between prostate health and various conditions, the direct links to prostate cancer risk, diabetes, and hypertension are not as immediate or direct as the implications of BPH on urinary function. Therefore, the increase in UTIs and acute urinary retention represents a significant risk factor inherent to the complication of prostatic hypertrophy.