Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-related overgrowth of normal prostate tissue. It is extremely common in older men and is not cancer. It typically affects the central part of the prostate around the urethra, which is why it produces urinary symptoms like a weak stream, urgency, and night-time urination.
Prostate cancer usually develops in the outer part of the gland, so it often causes no symptoms until later. It is detected through screening discussions, PSA testing, examination, and imaging or biopsy rather than by symptoms alone. Importantly, BPH does not cause cancer, although a man can have both at the same time.
Because the two can coexist and both can raise PSA, only a doctor can tell them apart through proper assessment. See a clinician about persistent urinary symptoms, and discuss whether prostate cancer screening is appropriate for you based on your age and risk factors.