Shocking Truth About Prostate Cancer - 1 in 8 Men Will Get It, But Is It Preventable

Preventive health care encompasses a host of strategies designed to reduce individuals’ risk for conditions and diseases that can adversely affect their quality of life. Routine exercise and a commitment to a nutritious diet are two such strategies, and each plays a critical role in the prevention of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer found in men, with one in eight men developing it at some point in their lives. The disease, which occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate gland grow and multiply uncontrollably, often affects men over the age of 50.

While age is a significant risk factor for the development of prostate cancer, there are other risk factors that men should be aware of. One such risk factor is a family history of the disease. Men who have a father or brother with prostate cancer are twice as likely to develop the disease as those without a family history. Similarly, men of African American descent are 60% more likely to develop prostate cancer as compared to other racial groups.

Fortunately, there are steps that men can take to reduce their risk of developing prostate cancer. As previously mentioned, a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can play a critical role in reducing a man’s risk of developing the disease. A diet that is specific to preventing prostate cancer should include foods that contain high levels of antioxidants such as tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Exercise is also critical to reducing a man’s risk of prostate cancer. Regular exercise not only helps men maintain a healthy weight but also helps reduce the risk of developing the disease by maintaining healthy hormone levels and stimulating circulation. Aerobic exercise such as running, cycling, and swimming are excellent options and should be considered when developing an exercise routine.

Regular screening tests are also critical to reducing a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer. One common screening test is the Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), which allows a doctor to manually detect any abnormal cells within the prostate. Another test that is commonly used is the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, which measures the amount of PSA in the blood. High levels of PSA are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.

Lastly, there has been a significant emphasis on the importance of annual check-ups with a doctor. Annual check-ups allow men to receive personalized recommendations for reducing their risk of prostate cancer based on their unique health profile, medical history, and family history.