Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men worldwide. In 2020, there were an estimated 191,930 new cases and 33,330 deaths in the United States alone.

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped gland that produces and stores seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. As men age, their risk of developing prostate cancer increases. Research has shown that ejaculation frequency may have an impact on prostate cancer risk and progression.

What is Ejaculation Frequency?

Ejaculation frequency refers to how often a man ejaculates. Ejaculation can occur during sexual intercourse, masturbation, or nocturnal emission (also known as “wet dreams”).

According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, the average frequency of ejaculation among American men aged 18-24 is 5.6 times per week. This decreases to 4.9 times per week for men aged 25-29 and 4.1 times per week for men aged 30-39. Ejaculation frequency tends to decline further as men age.

The Link between Ejaculation Frequency and Prostate Cancer

Several studies have examined the relationship between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer.

One study, published in the journal European Urology, found that men who ejaculated more than 21 times per month had a 31% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men who ejaculated 4-7 times per month. Another study, published in the International Journal of Cancer, found that men who ejaculated more than 5 times per week had a 34% lower risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer compared to men who ejaculated less than 2 times per week.

The reason for this link is not entirely clear. One theory is that frequent ejaculation may help to clear the prostate of potentially harmful substances.

Additionally, ejaculation may reduce inflammation in the prostate, which is thought to play a role in the development and progression of prostate cancer. It is important to note, however, that correlation does not necessarily mean causation. While the link between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer risk is intriguing, further research is needed to fully understand the relationship.

Ejaculation Frequency and Prostate Cancer Treatment

For men who have already been diagnosed with prostate cancer, ejaculation frequency may also play a role in treatment outcomes.

A study published in the journal European Urology found that men who ejaculated frequently (more than 21 times per month) after diagnosis had a 22% lower risk of prostate cancer progression compared to men who ejaculated less than 8 times per month. Additionally, some medications used to treat prostate cancer can cause erectile dysfunction and decreased libido, which may lead to a decrease in ejaculation frequency.

Maintaining a healthy ejaculation frequency may help to improve quality of life for men undergoing prostate cancer treatment.

Other Factors that Impact Prostate Cancer Risk and Prevention

Ejaculation frequency is not the only factor that impacts prostate cancer risk and prevention. Other factors include:.

Age

Prostate cancer is more common in older men. According to the American Cancer Society, about 6 out of 10 cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed in men aged 65 or older.

Family History

Men who have a close relative (father, brother) with prostate cancer are at higher risk for developing the disease themselves.

Race/Ethnicity

African American men have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men of other races. Additionally, African American men are more likely to be diagnosed at an advanced stage and have a higher mortality rate from the disease.

Diet and Lifestyle

Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in red meat and saturated fat may help to lower prostate cancer risk. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight may also be beneficial.

Conclusion

The relationship between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer is an intriguing area of research. While studies have found a link between the two, further research is needed to fully understand the relationship and its implications.

In the meantime, maintaining a healthy ejaculation frequency may help to reduce prostate cancer risk and improve quality of life for men undergoing prostate cancer treatment. Additionally, addressing other risk factors such as age, family history, race/ethnicity, and lifestyle habits is important for prostate cancer prevention.