What condition often leads to urinary obstruction in older men?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the condition that commonly leads to urinary obstruction in older men due to the enlargement of the prostate gland. As men age, the prostate can grow larger, which can compress the urethra—the tube through which urine exits the body. This narrowing can make it difficult for urine to flow freely, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, and a weak urine stream.

BPH is very common in older men and is a benign condition, meaning it is not cancerous. However, its impact on urinary function can significantly affect a man's quality of life, prompting many to seek treatment. The relationship between the prostate's size and urinary symptoms is well-established, making BPH the primary cause of urinary obstruction in this demographic.

In contrast, conditions like urinary tract infections, prostatitis, and testicular cancer can have different causes and implications. While they can affect urinary function, they are not as closely associated with the type of obstructive symptoms that typically arise from an enlarged prostate in older men.