Exploring the Association Between Low Serum Vitamin D Levels and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Systematic Review
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Abstract
Introduction: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent urologic concern that affects aging men. In addition to hormonal influences, inflammation serves as one of the common pathways for the proliferative growth of BPH. The objective of this article is to bridge the knowledge gap on the association between Vitamin D, renowned for its anti-inflammatory effect, and BPH. Materials and methods: A systematic search was conducted using PubMed and Cochrane library databases, covering the period from 2013 to 2024, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Keyword combinations of "Vitamin D" and "BPH" were used. Articles were filtered using inclusion and exclusion criteria and underwent bias assessment using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). Results: This systematic review consists of 6 observational studies, involving more than 1500 male patients with and without BPH across six countries. All 6 studies suggest Lower serum vitamin D consistently correlates with larger prostate volumes. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to reduced urinary flow, with higher International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) but varying results regarding relationships Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA). These findings suggest vitamin D has potential for BPH management, but larger and more standardized studies are needed. Conclusion: This review indicates a significant association between low serum vitamin D and larger prostate volumes in BPH. While findings for other BPH parameters vary, the potential role of vitamin D in modulating prostate size is evident.
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