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Prosta, commonly referred to as the prostate, is a walnut-sized gland in the male reproductive system. It sits below the bladder and surrounds the upper part of the urethra. The prostate produces prostatic fluid, a component of semen that contains enzymes, zinc, and citrate, which support sperm vitality and function. During ejaculation, smooth muscle fibers in the gland help propel semen into the urethra.

Anatomically, the prostate consists of glandular tissue embedded in fibromuscular stroma and is divided into zones known as peripheral, central, and transitional. The peripheral zone contains most of the gland’s secretory tissue and is a common site for cancer to develop.

Prostate conditions include prostatitis (inflammation potentially due to infection or other causes), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancer. Prostatitis can cause pelvic or perineal pain, urinary difficulties, and sometimes fever. BPH enlarges the gland and may compress the urethra, leading to frequent urination, nocturia, weak urine stream, and incomplete emptying. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and may be asymptomatic early or present with urinary changes, blood in urine or semen, or pelvic pain in advanced stages.

Diagnosis typically involves a digital rectal exam and measurement of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) in the blood. Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI can aid assessment, and biopsy is used to confirm cancer.

Treatment depends on the condition and its severity. BPH may be managed with lifestyle changes, medications (alpha blockers or 5-alpha reductase inhibitors), or surgery (for example, TURP). Prostate cancer treatment ranges from active surveillance for low-risk tumors to radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy; hormone therapy or chemotherapy may be used for advanced disease. Prostatitis treatment depends on the cause, typically antibiotics for bacterial prostatitis, with pain management and alpha blockers as needed. Prostate health is commonly monitored with age, and screening recommendations vary by country and risk factors.