What do you know about the prostate? Most people know very little about it or what it does. In fact, they probably don’t think about the prostate at all unless they have a problem with it.

To help educate the public, we’ve put together some facts about the prostate we think you should know with help from the Prostate Cancer Foundation and netdoctor.co.uk.

1. The prostate produces semen.

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that surrounds the urethra. Its main job is to produce seminal fluid which when mixed with sperm cells becomes semen.

2. The prostate continues growing.

The prostate continues to grow throughout a man’s life. For a lot of men, this can mean that the prostate begins to squeeze the urethra causing problems with urination. As a man gets older, he is more likely to suffer the effects of an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

3. Some prostate problems can be left untreated.

Not all prostate problems need treating, some BPH cases are very mild and some prostate cancers are slow-growing and not life-threatening. These are mild forms of the diseases where no immediate treatment is necessary and doctors will carry out what is called “watchful waiting.”

Find out more about these three prostate diseases here. 

4. There are different prostate diseases.

There are three main conditions which can affect the prostate: benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate cancer and prostatitis, which is an inflammation of the prostate.

5. Your life is not dependent on your prostate.

The prostate is not an essential part of the body and men can live perfectly well without it should it need to be removed. However, it is an important part of the male reproductive system.

6. The symptoms of prostate diseases.

Symptoms of prostate problems can include urinary issues, pain in the lower pain and testicles, blood in the urine or sperm, pain when ejaculating, and problems getting an erection. Often prostate cancer will have no symptoms and is only picked up during routine tests.

Find out more about the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia here.

7. How age affects the prostate.

Age is a factor for BPH and prostate cancer the risks of both diseases increase as you get older. However, prostatitis can affect a man at any age.

8. How diet affects the prostate.

A healthy diet will help protect your prostate from BPH, prostate cancer, and prostatitis. Eat a diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lean protein and healthy fats. Try to avoid sugar, excess salt, saturated fats, and processed foods containing preservatives and additives. Being active, not smoking and only drinking moderately will also improve your prostate health.

Discover four treatment and lifestyle options after a BPH diagnosis. 

BPH News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.