The prostate is a small gland found only in men, located near the urethra, just below the bladder. This gland naturally enlarges as we age. However, when this swelling starts to compress the urethra, various types of urinary problems arise. Here are the main reasons behind this and the warnings the body gives:
Aging and hormonal changes: The most important cause of prostate swelling is age. This condition occurs in more than half of men over the age of 50 and 90 percent of those over the age of 80. As we age, the male hormone testosterone decreases, and changes in the levels of estrogen and DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) hormones cause excessive growth of prostate cells.
Genetics: If a father or brother has a family history of prostate inflammation or prostate cancer, men in the next generation are also at a higher risk of developing this disease.
Obesity and diabetes: Studies show that inflammation in the body in people with metabolic syndrome, uncontrolled diabetes, and obesity stimulates the growth of the prostate gland rapidly.
Lack of exercise and poor diet: People who lead a sedentary lifestyle and regularly eat red meat (beef, mutton) and fatty foods are more likely to develop an enlarged prostate.