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Exercise and Physical Activity as Modifiable Risk Factors for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: An Update
Frederico Branco1,2, Sílvia Rocha-Rodrigues2,3,4, María J Ribal5
1Urology Department, Prelada Hospital, Rua de Sarmento de Beires, Porto, Portugal.
Current Urology Reports
|July 21, 2026
Summary
Regular physical activity (PA) and exercise may reduce the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Moderate exercise and high-intensity PA show potential benefits, but more research is needed to confirm these findings for BPH prevention.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Preventive Medicine
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men, causing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and impacting quality of life.
- Identifying modifiable risk factors for BPH is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing evidence on the association between physical activity (PA) and exercise and the risk of developing BPH.
- To investigate whether PA and exercise have differential effects on BPH pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases.
- Included studies comprised 17 observational studies, one meta-analysis, and one Mendelian randomization study, totaling 19 human studies.
- Studies evaluated the link between PA or exercise and the risk of BPH and/or LUTS.
Main Results:
- Four of six studies on exercise suggested a protective effect against BPH, with moderate intensity being more beneficial than high intensity.
- Seven of 14 studies on PA indicated a protective effect, primarily with high-intensity PA.
- Evidence is inconsistent, with some studies showing no significant association or mixed results for both PA and exercise.
Conclusions:
- Moderate-intensity exercise and moderate-to-high PA may offer some protection against BPH, but the evidence is not conclusive.
- Further research, particularly randomized controlled trials with standardized protocols, is necessary to clarify the role of PA and exercise in BPH prevention.
- Objective assessment of dose-response effects and underlying mechanisms is critical for informing clinical and public health recommendations.
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