Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in men, with about 1 in 9 men being diagnosed with it during their lifetime.

While genetics and age are uncontrollable risk factors, certain lifestyle choices can potentially increase a person’s chance of developing prostate cancer. One such risk factor may be the consumption of certain drinks.

Alcohol

One drink of alcohol is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor. Multiple studies have found a correlation between heavy alcohol consumption and an increased risk of prostate cancer.

Heavy drinking is defined as more than 3 drinks per day. In a study of over 18,000 men, those who consumed more than 3 drinks per day were 61% more likely to develop prostate cancer compared to those who drank less.

Another study found that men who drank more than 3 drinks per day had a 45% higher risk of having high-grade prostate cancer compared to men who drank less.

Soda and Sugary Drinks

Soda and other sugary drinks are already linked to obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Now, research also suggests they could increase your risk of prostate cancer.

A study of over 8,000 men found that those who drank one or more sugary drinks per day had a 20% higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who didn’t consume sugary drinks. The study found that the risk increased to 31% for men who drank the most sugary drinks.

Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are notorious for their high caffeine content. While caffeine itself isn’t linked to prostate cancer, the other ingredients in energy drinks could increase the risk.

A study found that men who consumed energy drinks daily had a 19% higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who didn’t consume energy drinks.

Coffee

Coffee, on the other hand, could potentially decrease a person’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Multiple studies have found a correlation between coffee consumption and a lower risk of prostate cancer.

In a study of over 29,000 men, those who drank 6 or more cups of coffee per day had a 20% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who didn’t drink coffee. Another study found that men who drank 3 cups of coffee per day had a 11% lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

Green Tea

Green tea is known for its potential health benefits, including a lower risk of certain types of cancer. Some studies have found that green tea could also help reduce a person’s risk of prostate cancer.

In a study of over 49,000 men, those who drank green tea regularly had a 48% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who didn’t drink green tea. Another study found that men who drank more than 5 cups of green tea per day had a 48% lower risk of developing advanced prostate cancer.

Conclusion

While further research is needed to fully understand the correlation between drinks and prostate cancer risk, it’s important to monitor your consumption of certain beverages.

Heavy alcohol consumption and sugary drinks should be limited to reduce the risk of prostate cancer, while coffee and green tea could potentially lower the risk. As with any health concerns, it’s always best to consult a medical professional if you have any questions or concerns about your prostate health.