Physical activity, benign prostate hyperplasia and prostatitis

Physical activity is associated with a clinically useful reduction in the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is also of interest as a potential palliative treatment in chronic prostatitis. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. There is an increased growth of both glandular epithelial cells and stromal cells, with formation of distinct nodules. The influence of habitual physical activity upon benign prostatic hyperplasia has attracted less attention than its possible role in the prevention of prostate carcinoma. Thirteen investigations have related recreational activity to risk of benign prostate hyperplasia. One report found an adverse effect of physical activity, and two gave inconsistent results, but remaining ten reports pointed to a beneficial outcome, statistically significant in seven of ten trials. Although chronic prostatitis is often treated by a prolonged course of anti biotics, before embarking upon such an intervention it is important to determine the sensitivity of the micro-organisms involved, as they are often resistant to antibiotics.