How can men lower their risk?

admin
March 8, 2024

While some risk factors for prostate cancer, such as age, family history, and genetics, cannot be modified, there are several lifestyle modifications and strategies that men can adopt to help lower their risk of developing prostate cancer. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
  2. Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources such as fish and poultry may lower the risk of prostate cancer. Limiting consumption of red meat, processed meat, and high-fat dairy products may also be beneficial.
  3. Limit intake of high-fat foods: Consumption of high-fat foods, particularly those high in saturated fats, may increase the risk of prostate cancer. Choosing low-fat or fat-free alternatives and reducing intake of fried foods, fatty meats, and high-fat dairy products may help lower the risk.
  4. Increase intake of plant-based foods: Plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds contain antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that may have protective effects against prostate cancer. Aim to include a variety of plant-based foods in your diet on a regular basis.
  5. Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption, particularly heavy or excessive drinking, may increase the risk of prostate cancer. Limiting alcohol intake to moderate levels or abstaining from alcohol altogether may help reduce the risk.
  6. Quit smoking: Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer and may also affect treatment outcomes. Quitting smoking can help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer and improve overall health.
  7. Stay physically active: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening exercises on two or more days per week.
  8. Get regular medical check-ups: Regular medical check-ups and discussions with healthcare providers about prostate cancer screening are important for early detection and management of the disease. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal examination (DRE) may be recommended for men at higher risk of prostate cancer or those with concerning symptoms.

By adopting these lifestyle modifications and strategies, men can help lower their risk of developing prostate cancer and improve overall health and well-being. It’s important to consult with healthcare providers for personalized recommendations based on individual health status and risk factors.