- By Iram Hussain
- Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:44 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men. According to the American Cancer Society, about one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Prostate cancer develops in the small, walnut-shaped gland that produces semen. While the risk of developing prostate cancer can’t be eliminated, there are steps you can take to reduce it. However, there is positive news as well. Advancements in treatment and a renewed focus on routine screenings have led to a significant reduction in prostate cancer death rates.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Rahul Gupta Senior Consultant, Urology & Head – Renal Transplant, Sarvodaya Hospital, Sector -8, Faridabad listed some important yet effective ways to lower the risk of prostate cancer. No matter where you are in the risk mix, there are ways to proactively manage your prostate cancer risk.
Do's And Don'ts To Reduce The Risk Of Prostate Cancer
Consume Two Servings Of Fruits and Vegetables
The vitamins and nutrients in fruits and vegetables may help decrease your prostate cancer risk. Dark green vegetables, in particular, have compounds that break down substances called carcinogens that can cause cancer. In addition, eating fruits and vegetables throughout the day makes you less likely to consume unhealthy processed foods.
Limit The Intake Of Animal Fats
As suggested there is a link between the consumption of animal fats and an increased risk of prostate cancer. This includes fat in meat, butter, and cheese. Whenever possible, replace animal fats with plant-based fats (olive oil instead of butter, for example).
Eat More Fish
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish may help reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. These acids are higher in certain fish including tuna, trout, salmon, sardines and mackerel.
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Ways to reduce the risk of prostate cancer (Image Credits: Canva)
Eat Red Foods
Red foods are singled out as an important part of a cancer-prevention diet because they contain a powerful antioxidant called lycopene. Studies suggest that cooking tomatoes makes it easier for your body to absorb lycopene. When choosing tomatoes, the redder they are the better.
Drink Coffee
It is widely accepted that drinking coffee helps lower prostate cancer risk. However, high doses of caffeine can increase the risk of an irregular heartbeat and seizures. If you choose to drink coffee to lower your prostate cancer risk, talk with the doctor about how much coffee is right for you.
Exercise Regularly
Exercising 30 minutes a day most days of the week may lower your risk of developing prostate cancer. Plus, regular exercise has a positive impact on other aspects of your health such as cardiovascular fitness.
Maintain Healthy Weight
Being obese can increase your risk of prostate cancer. If you’re overweight or obese, work to lose weight. Decrease the number of calories you consume each day and increase the amount of exercise you do.
Discuss Screenings With Your Doctor
The earlier prostate cancer is caught, the more successfully it can be treated. Most prostate cancers are first found during a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and or a digital rectal exam (DRE). Consult your doctor (starting at age 50) about the pros and cons of these screenings.
Watch For Symptoms
Many patients with prostate cancer often have no symptoms at all. Those who do have symptoms may experience a weak flow of urine; difficulty urinating; frequent urination (especially at night); pain or burning during urination; blood in your urine; or pain that does not go away in your lower back, pelvis or upper thighs. See your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.