A drink with friends, a glass of wine at dinner—many men enjoy alcohol without a second thought. But if you’re over 50 and focusing on your health, you may have asked yourself: Does alcohol affect prostate health?
The prostate plays an important role in urinary and reproductive function. Some research suggests that drinking could contribute to prostate issues, including inflammation, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and even prostate cancer. But is the connection as clear-cut as it sounds?
Let’s break down what science really says about alcohol’s effects on the prostate—and what it means for your health.
How Alcohol Affects the Body and Prostate
When alcohol enters the body, the liver processes it into acetaldehyde, a compound that can be toxic at high levels. Alcohol also affects hormone levels, particularly testosterone and estrogen, which are known to influence prostate growth and function.
- Hormonal Disruption – Studies from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggest that alcohol can alter testosterone levels. Since the prostate depends on hormonal balance, long-term disruptions could have consequences.
- Increased Inflammation – Chronic alcohol use has been linked to higher levels of inflammation, which may contribute to prostate irritation and swelling.
- Immune System Weakening – Excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system, potentially making the body less able to fight off infections or abnormal cell growth.
These systemic effects raise questions about alcohol’s role in prostate conditions, including prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancer.
Alcohol and Prostate Inflammation
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate that can cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, burning during urination, and difficulty emptying the bladder. It affects about 10% of men at some point in their lives.
- Does Alcohol Cause Prostatitis? No direct evidence links alcohol consumption to prostatitis. However, research published in the Journal of Urology indicates that alcohol may exacerbate existing inflammation, particularly in men with chronic prostatitis.
- Can Alcohol Worsen Symptoms? Yes. Alcohol irritates the bladder and urinary tract, which can worsen discomfort and urinary issues in men already experiencing prostatitis.
For men prone to chronic prostate inflammation, reducing alcohol intake may help alleviate symptoms.
Does Alcohol Increase Prostate Cancer Risk?
- Some Studies Suggest a Link: A meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Cancer found that heavy alcohol consumption (defined as more than 50 grams per day) was associated with a slight increase in prostate cancer risk.
- Other Studies Show No Strong Association: Data from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study indicated only a weak association between overall alcohol intake and prostate cancer risk, with no significant link specifically between red wine consumption and prostate cancer.
These findings suggest that while heavy, chronic alcohol use may increase prostate cancer risk, moderate alcohol intake (one to two drinks per day) has not been definitively linked to prostate cancer.
Alcohol and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in older men where the prostate enlarges, leading to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and incomplete bladder emptying.
- Alcohol’s Role in BPH Symptoms – Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production. It can worsen urinary urgency and nighttime trips to the bathroom for men with BPH.
- Does Alcohol Cause BPH? No, but studies suggest heavy alcohol use may aggravate symptoms by irritating the bladder and increasing inflammation.
- Potential Protective Effects? Some research suggests that compounds in red wine, such as resveratrol, may have anti-inflammatory properties. However, no strong clinical evidence exists that red wine improves BPH symptoms.
If you experience severe BPH symptoms, consider reducing alcohol intake, especially before bedtime, to improve urinary function.
How to Support Prostate Health
If you’re concerned about alcohol’s impact on your prostate, there are practical steps you can take:
- Follow Recommended Drinking Guidelines – The CDC defines moderate drinking as up to two drinks per day for men.
- Stay Hydrated – Drinking water helps flush toxins and reduces bladder irritation.
- Eat a Prostate-Friendly Diet – Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, which have been linked to better prostate health.
- Get Regular Screenings – PSA tests and prostate exams can help detect issues early.
- Monitor Symptoms – If alcohol worsens urinary or prostate-related symptoms, consider reducing intake.
If you have concerns about your prostate or experience urinary issues, consulting a prostate specialist can provide personalized guidance. By making informed choices, you can enjoy a balanced lifestyle while prioritizing your long-term health.
Take Control of Your Prostate Health with PAE for BPH
If you’re dealing with frequent urination, weak flow, or other BPH symptoms, you don’t have to live with the discomfort. PAE treatment (Prostatic Artery Embolization) is a minimally invasive option that can shrink the prostate and provide long-lasting relief—without surgery.
At Prostate Specialists of Miami, Dr. Adam S. Gropper provides comprehensive evaluations to help determine the cause of your symptoms and whether PAE treatment is right for you. As one of the leading board-certified Diagnostic & Interventional Radiologists, Dr. Gropper specializes in treating BPH safely and effectively so you can regain comfort and confidence.
Your online search for “prostate artery embolization doctors near me” brought you here. Take the next step and call (786) 500-5347 today to schedule your consultation, or fill out our confidential online form to learn more about PAE treatment for BPH. We can help you find lasting relief and better prostate health.
While you wait for your consultation, we invite you to download our FREE guide, “5 Reasons to Choose Prostate Artery Embolization,” and discover why PAE could be the best choice for you.
We also offer a FREE Webinar: Mastering Prostate Health: The PAE Breakthrough for Men. Check it out here to reserve your spot.
Copyright © 2025. Prostate Specialists of Miami. All rights reserved.
The information on this site is not intended or implied as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, is on or available through this website for general information purposes only. Prostate Specialists of Miami makes no representation and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information on or available through this website. Such information is subject to change without notice. We encourage you to confirm any information obtained from or through this website with other sources and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read or accessed through this website.
Prostate Specialists of Miami
15400 Biscayne Boulevard #104
Aventura, FL 33160
(786) 500-5347
http://prostatespecialistmiami.com/
