Expert Says Publicity Will Encourage More Men to Seek Help for Enlarged Prostate

King Charles’ recent revelation about his enlarged prostate diagnosis is expected to prompt more men to seek medical advice, experts have said. The 75-year-old monarch chose to disclose his condition to encourage other men experiencing similar symptoms to get checked.

Prostate issues are particularly common among men aged 50 and over, with one in three affected by symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and difficulty fully emptying the bladder. By the age of 75, up to 80% of men may experience prostate enlargement, with about half of these men suffering symptoms to varying degrees.

Ian Eardley, a consultant urological surgeon, explained that the condition, though very common with age, can often be managed at first with lifestyle adjustments, such as reducing late-night fluid intake and cutting out caffeine. If these measures don’t work, medications may be used, and in more severe cases, surgical options may be considered.

While the condition is typically benign, Charles is scheduled to undergo a corrective procedure. Eardley noted that publicising such diagnoses can lead to increased awareness and men seeking help. He emphasised that prostate problems, though often seen as a taboo subject, can usually be treated with non-invasive methods such as medication. In fact, many men may only need a simple prescription from their GP.

Prostate Cancer UK specialist nurse, Meg Burgess, also highlighted that as the prostate enlarges, it can press on the urethra, leading to urinary issues. While surgery is not always required, men experiencing significant symptoms can benefit from medication or a range of surgical interventions, such as a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), a common procedure carried out 15,000 times annually in the UK.

Burgess encouraged men with urinary difficulties or concerns about prostate cancer to contact their GP for advice and to explore available treatment options.