Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer found in men. According to the American Cancer Society, there were over 191,930 new cases of prostate cancer in 2020 alone.

While there is no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, there are some things that prostate cancer patients can do to help improve their life expectancy.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is important for all individuals, but it can be especially critical for prostate cancer patients. A diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can help to strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Additionally, antioxidant-rich foods can help to reduce the risk of developing other types of cancer.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise has been shown to improve many health-related outcomes, including helping to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. For prostate cancer patients, exercise can also help to reduce fatigue and improve overall quality of life.

It is important to talk to a physician before starting an exercise program to ensure that it is appropriate for your health status and needs.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for everyone, but it can be especially critical for prostate cancer patients. Sleep can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Additionally, sleep is important for allowing the body to repair itself and fight off disease.

Manage Stress

Stress can have a negative impact on health, including increasing the risk of developing cancer. For prostate cancer patients, stress can worsen symptoms and reduce overall quality of life.

Managing stress through activities like meditation, yoga, or therapy can be beneficial for many individuals.

Take Medications as Prescribed

Some prostate cancer patients may be prescribed medications as part of their treatment plan. It is important to take these medications as prescribed by your physician, as they can help to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.

Attend Regular Doctor Appointments

Regular doctor appointments are important for all individuals, but they can be especially critical for prostate cancer patients. Regular monitoring can help to detect any changes in the disease and allow for appropriate treatment adjustments.

It is important to stay on top of all recommended doctor visits and tests.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can increase the risk of developing many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Quitting smoking can help to improve overall health and reduce the risk of cancer progression.

It may be helpful to seek professional support or utilize smoking cessation resources.

Drink Alcohol Moderately

While moderate alcohol consumption may not have a significant impact on prostate cancer outcomes, heavy or excessive alcohol consumption can have negative impacts on overall health and cancer progression.

It is important to consume alcohol in moderation, or to eliminate it altogether, to improve overall health outcomes.

Join a Support Group

A prostate cancer diagnosis can be a difficult and isolating experience. Joining a support group or connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences can help to provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation or distress.