Prostate cancer is a growing concern among men all over the globe. It is considered the second most common cancer in men worldwide, causing more than 350,000 deaths every year.

While there are various treatments available for this cancer, it is always wise to focus on prevention. In this regard, adopting a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in slowing prostate tumor growth and reducing overall prostate cancer risk.

Eat a Healthy Diet

The relationship between diet and prostate cancer is complex. However, including certain foods in your diet that are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and other essential nutrients can be beneficial.

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, berries, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce the risk of cancer. Some studies suggest that consuming fish, particularly fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, or sardines, may reduce the risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer due to the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids they contain.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. It not only maintains a healthy weight but also plays a vital role in preventing various diseases such as cancer.

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Consider brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that elevates your heart rate and makes you sweat.

Manage Stress Levels

Stress can contribute to a range of diseases, including prostate cancer. Studies suggest that men who experience high levels of stress are at higher risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.

Chronic stress can lead to inflammation, a known cancer risk factor. Mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature are effective ways to manage stress levels.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can harm the body in many ways, including increasing the risk of cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that men should have no more than two drinks per day.

Alcohol metabolizes into a compound called acetaldehyde that damages DNA and stops cells from repairing themselves, increasing one’s susceptibility to cancer.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the leading causes of cancer worldwide. Tobacco smoke contains cancer-causing substances or carcinogens that can damage DNA and lead to the development of cancer. Men who smoke are at an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Smoking also contributes to inflammation, which can further accelerate tumor growth. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do to reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is linked to various health disorders, including cancer. Higher body mass index (BMI) has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, particularly aggressive prostate cancer, among men.

It is essential to maintain a healthy weight that falls in the healthy range (BMI of 18.5 to 24.9). A healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer and slow tumor growth if the cancer has already developed.

Get Enough Sleep

Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Poor sleep can weaken the immune system, impacting the body’s ability to fight off diseases such as cancer.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men who slept less than six hours a night had a higher risk of developing prostate cancer than those who slept more than seven hours. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night.

Be Proactive with Screenings and Check-Ups

Prostate cancer often does not show any symptoms in its early stages, making it crucial to get regular check-ups. Screening tests such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or a digital rectal exam (DRE) can detect prostate cancer early.

Early detection can lead to more effective treatment and a better prognosis. Men over the age of 50 should discuss the pros and cons of these tests with their healthcare provider and decide if they should undergo screening based on their individual risk factors.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer is a significant health concern that requires attention. While there are various treatments available, it is always best to prevent the development of cancer in the first place.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, managing stress levels, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, getting enough sleep, and being proactive with screenings and check-ups, can all help to slow tumor growth, reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer, and improve overall health and wellbeing.