Vitamin D and benign prostatic hyperplasia -- a review

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent condition causing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in aging men, characterized by prostate cell overgrowth.
• BPH affects a significant portion of the male population, with prevalence increasing substantially after age 50 and by age 80.
• A high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the male urological population suggests a potential link between vitamin D and BPH.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current data on the relationship between vitamin D and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
• To evaluate the potential role of vitamin D in modulating prostate growth and BPH development.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on studies investigating the correlation between vitamin D and BPH.
• Data from relevant studies were compiled and analyzed to provide a consolidated overview.

Main Results:

• Vitamin D demonstrates an inhibitory effect on the RhoA/ROCK pathway, cyclooxygenase-2, and prostaglandin E2 production in BPH stromal cells.
• Increased vitamin D intake through diet and supplements correlates with a reduced prevalence of BPH.
• Vitamin D supplementation (up to 6000 IU/day) has been shown to decrease prostate volume in BPH patients.
• Pre-clinical studies indicate vitamin D inhibits proliferation of BPH and prostate cells, even when stimulated by growth factors like IL-8, IGF-1, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone.
• No adverse side effects or negative implications were reported with increased vitamin D intake across the reviewed studies.

Conclusions:

• The findings suggest a promising role for vitamin D in managing prostate volume and BPH.
• Further research into the therapeutic potential of vitamin D for BPH is warranted.