Prostate Health and Supplements: Know the Facts - Healthline
The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland that is located below the bladder and wraps around the upper part of the urethra. Its primary function is to produce most of the fluid that comprises semen ( 1 ). Three main conditions can occur in the prostate, including ( 1 , 4 , 5 , 6 ): Acute or chronic prostatitis. This is characterized by inflammation of the prostate. In some cases, prostatitis is caused by a bacterial infection, while other times the cause is unknown. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This noncancerous enlargement of the prostate often leads to lower urinary tract symptoms. It's one of the most common conditions in older men. Prostate cancer. This form of cancer develops in the prostate. It's the fourth leading cause of death in men worldwide. While the early stages of prostate cancer may be asymptomatic, prostate problems are often accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms, such as ( 1 , 5 , 6 , 7 ): painful urination the frequent urge to urinate waking up in t...