Know Your Prostate Cancer Risk
First, a few statistics:
- In the United States, an estimated 288,300 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during 2023. Of these 34,700 will die from it.
- One in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.
- Prostate cancer is the second leading type of cancer in men.
Given these statistics, you may find it surprising to know that 25% of men in the United States have not talked to their primary care doctor about the early detection of prostate cancer.
Keep reading to find out what you need to know about prostate cancer, and how you can reduce your risk.
What Is the Prostate?
The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system, and it’s responsible for producing seminal fluid during ejaculation. It can be found just below the bladder, and it surrounds the urethra.
Some common issues involving the prostate include prostate enlargement and prostatitis. Prostate enlargement is common in men as they get older. And because the prostate surrounds the urethra, enlargement of the prostate is known for causing issues with urinary flow. Prostatitis, on the other hand, is an infection of the prostate. While both conditions can require medical intervention (and are very common), neither are an indication of cancer.
The Dangers of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells within the prostate grow to form tumors.
Usually, prostate tumors grow very slowly, especially in older men. Most of the time, this slow growth is confined to the prostate itself. However, in some cases, prostate cancer can spread rapidly, and it can spread beyond the prostate.
Risk factors for developing prostate cancer include:
- Age—prostate cancer is more common in men older than 50.
- Family history—prostate cancer risk increases if family members have had it.
- Ethnicity—African American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer than other ethnic groups.
- Lifestyle choices—being overweight, having a poor diet, smoking, excess alcohol consumption, and stress can all increase prostate cancer risk.
How to Reduce Your Risk
Things like ethnicity, family history, and age can’t be changed. However, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk for developing prostate cancer:
- Regular Prostate Screening
If you’re older than 50 and male, screening for prostate cancer should be a regular part of your annual physical. This can include a digital rectal exam and a PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test. If a closer look is warranted, your doctor may order a prostate MRI, a prostate ultrasound, or a prostate biopsy. - Maintain a Healthy Diet
A diet rich in lean protein, colorful vegetables, and healthy fats is good for your health overall, and that includes prostate health.
- Get Regular Exercise
Studies have shown that getting 75-150 minutes of exercise per week helps to reduce prostate cancer risk. - Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
Being overweight has been linked to increased prostate cancer risk. Keeping your body fat percentage within a healthy range can go a long way toward reducing this risk.
- Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk for developing prostate cancer. Don’t smoke, and drink moderately (or not at all).
- Manage Stress
Stress is harmful to your health overall. Your prostate is no exception.
Treatment for Prostate Cancer
For those who are diagnosed with prostate cancer, treatment options include surgery (both conventional surgery and laser surgery), radiation, chemotherapy, cryotherapy, and intensive ultrasound.
However…early detection is crucial. It leaves the door open to less invasive treatment options, and it also increases the odds that treatment will be successful.
Want to learn more about prostate health and screening for prostate cancer?
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