Prostate cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer in American males, partly due to the absence of a confirmed prevention method. Nonetheless, several preventive measures exist that can reduce your risk of developing this condition.

Some risk factors cannot be altered, while others may be addressed right away. Let's explore ways to lower your chances of developing prostate cancer.

Risk Factors

Before we address the elements within your influence, let's discuss some that are not. Both age and ethnicity are major determinants in the likelihood of acquiring prostate cancer. As you grow older, your risk rises, with the typical age of diagnosis being 66.

About one in every eight men will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis during their lifetime, and this risk increases significantly in the non-Hispanic Black population. Relative to white men, individuals of African descent have a 1.7 times higher likelihood of being diagnosed with and a 2.1 times greater risk of dying from prostate cancer.

Genetics plays an unavoidable role. Should your father, brother, uncle, or any close blood relative have experienced prostate cancer, your likelihood increases. If these risk elements are applicable to you, you might be contemplating what preventive actions are available.

Change Up Your Meals

No matter your age, ethnicity, or genetic background, adopting a healthier diet can reduce your risk. While the link between diet and prostate cancer remains somewhat unclear, research suggests specific foods to incorporate and others to eschew.

It is advisable to eat a diverse range of fruits and vegetables. Sulforaphane, a chemical found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, may help shield against cancer. Additionally, tomatoes seem to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells.

An essential adjustment in diet includes reducing the amount of trans and saturated fats you consume. Steer clear of any meats that appear charred due to barbecue or frying processes. Rather, opt for beneficial fats like omega-3, typically present in fish, nuts, and seeds.

Discussing nuts and seeds, pumpkin seeds have been recognized for alleviating specific prostate issues, and consuming Brazil nuts may help prevent cancer cell growth. Other beneficial foods linked to lowering your risk encompass shiitake mushrooms, green tea, and soy.

Other Dietary Changes

Ceasing smoking can greatly benefit your prostate and nearly every other facet of your health. Similarly, reducing alcohol intake can also decrease your likelihood of illness, since consuming alcohol increases the risk of cancer. It goes without saying that the combination of smoking and drinking poses an even greater danger to your health.

Get Moving

Obesity is often identified as a factor in more severe forms of cancer, making it essential to maintain a healthy weight. Men who engage in regular exercise routines are less likely to develop prostate cancer compared to individuals who lead inactive lives.

Hence, it is advised to include 30 minutes of physical activity in your daily schedule and adhere to this regimen multiple times a week. Engaging in regular exercise helps fight inflammation and strengthens your immune system, both effective strategies to prevent cancer.

Investigations into prostate cancer survivors reveal that intense physical activity significantly lowers the chances of cancer returning compared to moderate efforts. Activities such as steady-paced running, cycling, or swimming serve as prime examples of such vigorous workouts. It's advisable to speak with your healthcare provider to establish the most effective method for incorporating exercise into your routine.

As we discuss the topic of physical activity, it's worth noting that a higher frequency of sexual activity may also diminish your risks. Various research suggests that ejaculation could expel toxins responsible for causing inflammation – and although this theory might not hold, it nevertheless qualifies as a form of exercise!

Book An Appointment

Should you be at an elevated risk or worried about developing prostate cancer, consider discussing pharmaceutical alternatives with your physician. Research into medications originally targeting enlarged prostates has been conducted to ascertain if they help prevent prostate cancer, with findings indicating a potential risk reduction close to 25 percent.

At a minimum, discussing with your physician could lead to earlier or more frequent prostate examinations. Investigation remains the strongest safeguard against prostate cancer, with numerous resources accessible on the internet. Ranging from details on symptoms and treatments to nutritious meal plans and workout recommendations, there exists an entire community eager to assist others in lowering their risk.