Simple, Proven Ways to Lower Your Prostate Cancer Risk Today
| 2 min read
After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among American men. Roughly one in seven will be diagnosed in their lifetime. But there is good news: Death rates from prostate cancer are relatively low, with 98 percent of those diagnosed surviving for five years or more.
Prostate cancer develops in the tissue of the gland in the male reproductive system below the bladder and is most often diagnosed in older men, with six of 10 cases occurring in men over the age of 65.
There’s no proven way to prevent prostate cancer, but you can reduce your risk by living a healthier lifestyle. If you don’t have a family history of prostate cancer, many doctors recommend making healthy choices that will impact your overall health, including a healthier diet and regular exercise. Some tips include:
- Opt for low-fat foods. Studies have shown men who ate the highest amount of fat every day had an increased risk of prostate cancer. Limiting daily fat intake has other benefits, like weight control and helping your heart.
- Eat fatty fish. When you do eat fat, it’s good to go for salmon, sardines, tuna and trout that contain omega-3, a fatty acid linked to reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Try replacing high-fat meats like ground beef with these leaner options.
- Decrease the dairy. Although the risk associated with prostate cancer and dairy consumption is low, studies have found men who ate the most yogurt, milk and cheese were at a higher risk than those who didn’t.
- Drink green tea. In addition to the other health benefits that come from enjoying a regular cup of tea, it has also been found to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
- Have alcohol in moderation, if at all. There’s no clear evidence drinking alcohol can boost the risk of prostate cancer, but one study did find men who enjoyed several drinks every day over a long period of time had a higher risk.
- Keep moving. Being obese also increases the risk of prostate cancer. In addition to having a smart, healthy diet, daily exercise (even if it’s just a walk around the block) can really help cut the risk of developing this cancer.
If a family member has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, you might be at a higher risk. Be sure to talk to your primary care physician as early as age 40 about available screenings and potential medications to reduce your risk.
Photo credit: Artizone
