Epidemiology

A linear increase in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) incidence rates is seen from 3 cases per 1000 man-years at age 45 to 49 years to 38 cases per 1000 man-years at age 75 to 79 years.[3]

Global estimates show increasing prevalence throughout the world, from an estimated 51.1 million cases in 2000 to 94.0 million cases in 2019 among men ages 40 years and over.[4] Men ages 65-74 years accounted for 42% of cases, with age-specific prevalence highest in men ages 75-79 years (24,300 per 100,000). The age-standardized prevalence remained stable globally (approximately 2480 per 100,000) during this period, suggesting that population growth and an ageing population have a key role in increasing prevalence.[4] Age-standardized prevalence varies considerably across different geographic areas (e.g., 6480 per 100,000 in eastern Europe; 987 per 100,000 in north Africa and the Middle East).[4]

Estimates of absolute disease burden (measured in disability-adjusted life-years) rose globally between 2000 and 2019, and increases were most rapid in low- and middle-income countries.[4] Age-standardized prevalence and disability-adjusted life-years declined in many high-income countries. However, increases were seen in US estimates, which may reflect the increasing prevalence of comorbidities associated with BPH (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, cardiac disease, hyperlipidemia) compared with other high-income countries.[4] 

Personal and societal costs from lower urinary tract symptoms/BPH are seen globally; these include direct medical costs, indirect losses in daily functioning, and the negative impact on quality of life measures for patients and partners.[5]

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