Does an Enlarged Prostate Mean You Have Prostate Cancer? Understanding the Risk

If you’ve noticed changes in your urinary habits—such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, or difficulty starting and stopping—it’s natural to wonder if an enlarged prostate could be a sign of something more serious, like prostate cancer. While both conditions affect the prostate, they are not the same, and having an enlarged prostate does not necessarily mean you have cancer.

Greater Hartford Urology Group has been providing expert urological care for over 40 years, offering state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatments. Their team of board-certified urologists, including Dr. Peter Bosco, Dr. G. Thomas Trono, Dr. Shanta Shepherd, and Dr. Aaron Turnquist, utilizes advanced technology like the DaVinci Robotic System to deliver cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical prostate treatments, ensuring patients receive the highest level of care.

Enlarged Prostate vs. Prostate Cancer: Key Differences

An enlarged prostate, technically called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a non-cancerous condition that develops as men age. BPH happens when the prostate gland grows and presses against the urethra, leading to urinary symptoms. While BPH can be uncomfortable, it is not linked to cancer and does not increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.

On the other hand, prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably within the prostate gland. Early-stage prostate cancer doesn’t typically present symptoms, making routine screenings crucial for early detection.

Similar Symptoms, Different Causes

Because both BPH and prostate cancer can cause urinary issues, it’s important to recognize subtle differences:

• BPH Symptoms: Excessive urination (especially at night), weak urine flow, difficulty starting urination, and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
• Prostate Cancer Symptoms (in later stages): Blood in the urine or semen, difficulty urinating, pelvic pain, and erectile dysfunction.

Since symptoms can overlap, screening tests are crucial for determining whether further testing is needed.

Take Control of Your Prostate Health in Hartford, CT

If you’re experiencing persistent urinary symptoms, don’t panic—but don’t ignore them either. A doctor can review your specific case and determine whether your symptoms are due to BPH, an infection, or a more serious condition like prostate cancer.

An enlarged prostate is not an automatic diagnosis of prostate cancer, but it’s always wise to stay proactive about prostate health. If you’re experiencing symptoms, call us at 860-522-2251 to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists to get personalized advice and peace of mind.