Prostate cancer prevention holds exciting possibilities for the future and suggests some prostate cancer prevention strategies for men to use now. When deciding on what prevention strategies to adopt, keep in mind that several of the strongest known risk factors for prostate cancer are wildcards. They are simply beyond your control. These include: Genetics. The risk of prostate cancer is higher if other men (father or brothers) in your family have had the disease. Age. Prostate cancer is unusual in men before age 50, but incidence of the disease grows dramatically after that age. Race. African-American men are at much higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
The full range of things that cause prostate cancer is still largely unknown. Even individuals with none of the three uncontrollable risk factors for prostate cancer may choose to follow a lifestyle linked to a lower risk of the disease. The good habits that protect against prostate cancer might well help avoid other diseases as well, such as heart disease, colorectal cancer, and others. Much of the study on prostate cancer prevention focuses on good nutrition. Important factors include: Fat. Prostate cancer rates vary greatly from one country to another, with the highest rates appearing in countries where people tend to eat a lot of fat Vegetables. Some studies link a diet high in vegetables to a lower risk of prostate cancer. Fish. Prostate cancer can be two to three times more common in men who eat no fish as in men who eat moderate to large amounts of fish.
Research does not yet support any definite nutritional guidelines for preventing prostate cancer. Reasonable suggestions are to eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, reduce intake of saturated fat and cholesterol, limit sugars and salt. Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation, or cut them out completely. Watch your weight and control calories.
Obesity and prostate cancer: Studies have not established a direct connection between obesity and incidence of prostate cancer. However obesity may affect levels of hormones related to prostrate cancer risk. Strategies for preventing obesity include: following guidelines for a healthy diet, meeting with your doctor to develop a plan for physical activity, and doing some form of aerobic exercise for 30 minutes or more daily. Weight management control will have health benefits for the whole body and the mind. Take care of your body and your prostate will prosper.
