A majority of prostate cancer cases do not spread and are not life-threatening. But the remaining forms of this cancer are aggressive and pose a serious threat to your life. To determine the habits that could save your life from aggressive prostate cancer, researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, and Harvard published a study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
They examined 42,701 men in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (HPFS) from 1986 to 2010. The researchers then developed a lifestyle score to assess the risk posed by this illness. The scores ranged from 0–6, where men with a score of 5-6 had a 68% lower risk of lethal prostate cancer than those with a score of 0-1.
“Vigorous” exercise is the key
The study found that engaging in intense physical activity was the main factor contributing to a reduced risk of aggressive prostate cancer. This means more than just going for a leisurely walk; it requires you to break a sweat. Researchers estimated that nearly 34% of lethal prostate cancer cases in American men over 60 could be avoided if they exercised to the point of sweating for at least three hours per week.
A healthy diet can make a difference
Improving your diet is another way to significantly reduce your chances of developing fatal prostate cancer. A simple shift in eating habits could lower a person’s risk by nearly 50%!
The study offers several pieces of advice for dodging this lethal cancer. Among American men over 60, the risk of lethal prostate cancer could be:
- Reduced by 15% if they consumed at least seven servings of tomatoes per week.
- Slashed by 17% if they ate at least one serving of fatty fish every week.
- Cut by 12% if they limited their intake of processed meats.
Other factors you need to consider
While exercise and diet undoubtedly play a crucial role in lowering your risk of aggressive prostate cancer, other factors should not be ignored:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of various types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Maintain a weight appropriate for your height and body composition through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol use might have links to prostate cancer. Stick to the recommended guidelines, which are a maximum of two drinks a day for men aged 65 and younger, or one drink a day for men older than 65.
- Avoid smoking: Several forms of cancer are linked to smoking, including prostate cancer. This study suggests quitting early can reduce the risk.
Screening tests can help you stay safe
Early detection is crucial to treat any prostate-shaped issue. Prostate cancer is known for its slow growth, and some men might not even need aggressive treatment. However, others might require a strong course of action to avoid severe illness or death. That’s where regular screening tests come in.
Screening tests might not prevent prostate cancer in some cases, but they provide essential information to doctors, who can then determine the most effective treatment. Men should consult their doctors and discuss the importance of testing and treatment plans.
In conclusion
It’s unlikely that anyone can entirely eliminate the possibility of developing aggressive prostate cancer. However, by adopting a healthier lifestyle—focusing on vigorous exercise and proper nutrition—you might substantially reduce your risk. Additionally, early detection can help ensure proper treatment.
