Benign prostate hyperplasia is the benign enlargement of the prostate gland. This is a common condition among older men. As many as 50% of men at 50 years of age will have it and up to 80% at 80 years of age.
The main function of the prostate is related to the production of fluids that accompany semen during ejaculation. The prostate lies between the bladder and the penis. As such, when it grows bigger it can lead to obstruction of the flow of urine during urination. Long term obstruction can lead to urinary tract infection, retention of urine and even kidney failure.