What is the key characteristic of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH)?

The key characteristic of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) is an enlargement of the prostate gland. This condition is non-cancerous and occurs as men age, typically leading to an increase in the size of the prostate that can cause urinary symptoms. These symptoms often include difficulty starting urination, a weak urine stream, and an increased frequency of urination, particularly at night.

While other conditions related to the prostate may involve a malignant tumor or could pose a risk to kidney function if left untreated, BPH itself does not involve cancerous growth and is not inherently a serious threat to overall health—as it is typically manageable with lifestyle changes and medical treatments. Thus, the defining factor of BPH is the benign enlargement of the prostate tissue rather than cancerous changes or severe complications like kidney failure.