Even with incredible advancements in diagnostic technology and treatments for prostate cancer, like da Vinci® robotic surgery and HIFU (high intensity focused ultrasound), the mechanisms and factors behind why some men develop prostate cancer and others do not remain something of a mystery. But as Los Angeles urologists, specialists, and researchers learn more about how this form of cancer works, the benefits of following a healthy diet and making positive lifestyle modifications has become apparent.
Although lifestyle factors like diet and fitness alone may not predict or directly affect whether cancer will develop at some point, adopting a healthy lifestyle may help to reduce risks in some cases and maintain better health during prostate cancer treatment.
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
Like all forms of cancer, predicting an exact cause can be difficult. Experts have identified a few factors that may be involved in increasing the risk for some men:
Inherited Genetic Mutations – According to the American Cancer Society, mutations in the following genes, which are passed from one generation to the next, can increase the risk of developing the condition from 5 – 10% in men who inherit the faulty genes:
- BRCA1 and BRCA2
- HOXB13
- RNASEL (formerly known as HPC1)
Because it is impossible to tell whether a person is carrying a gene mutation without genetic testing, speak to a Los Angeles urologist about your individual risk factors if you have a family history of prostate cancer and inherited gene mutations.
Other factors that may play a role in increasing the risk for the onset of the condition include:
- Race
- Age
- Environmental stressors
- Lifestyle factors like poor diet and smoking
What Can I Do to Lower My Risk of Cancer?
Know Your Risk
Because genetic factors like inherited mutations are beyond individual control, knowing your risk individual risk factors and predisposition for developing cancer in the prostate gland is a good place to start. Speak to a urologist about the best testing and screening options for your situation, and make regular screenings a part of your overall healthcare and wellness routine.
Screening methods have become less invasive and more sophisticated and precise over the years. The Prostate Cancer Specialists of Los Angeles offer a range of state-of-the-art testing, such as MRI Fusion Biopsy and prostate mapping, and high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment when the condition is suspected, in order to obtain the most accurate and timely results possible. Learn more about prostate cancer prevention at WebMD.com.
Healthy Lifestyle Factors Within Your Control
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Incorporating a healthy diet and regular exercise is always a good idea at any point in time and stage of life. Studies have shown that the rules that govern general health and wellbeing may also play a role in potentially lowering the risk of prostate cancer in some men. Maintaining a healthy weight is not only important in the fight against serious health problems like heart disease and diabetes, but it is also believed to play a role in the fight against many types of cancer.
You Are What You Eat!
A diet low in fat and high in fruits and vegetables has been recommended as an important step in the fight against prostate and other forms of cancer. Limit consumption of red meat and substitute it for fatty fish like salmon and sardines. High-fat foods to avoid or consume in moderation include:
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, butter)
- Nuts and oils (substitute extra virgin olive oil for flaxseed oil)
- Animal fats
Getting protein and other essential nutrients predominantly from plants based foods and vegetables has been shown to offer benefits and improvements to overall health and wellness.
Get Up and Move!
Numerous studies have shown that the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle low on or completely absent of physical activities can be as deadly on health as smoking. When other health risks like being overweight are factored into the lack of exercise, it is no surprise that health experts are finding that getting regular exercise several times a week can also be a potential tool in the fight against cancer. Getting physically fit does not necessarily mean getting off the couch and running a marathon! Low impact exercises like vigorous walking, swimming, and elliptical trainers are a good choice for staying active and keeping body weight at healthy levels.
Avoid All Tobacco and Consume Alcohol Only in Moderation
The dangers of smoking in every aspect of human health have been well documented. When it comes to lowering cancer risk, quitting (or abstaining from picking up the habit in the first place) should be a priority for men of all ages.
Limiting alcohol consumption is also recommended for maintaining a healthy weight and good general health.
Making gradual, sensible lifestyle changes that are sustainable over should be the goal.
Contact a Urology Specialist in Los Angeles
For more information on screening and prevention, contact the Prostate Cancer Specialists of Los Angeles by calling 310-499-2756 to schedule an appointment with a urologist today.
In a Nutshell: Prostate Gland Cancer Prevention
- Healthy lifestyle: Exercise regularly, avoid tobacco, consume alcohol only in moderation
- Healthy diet: Avoid high-fat foods
- Know your risk: Speak to your doctor about genetic testing and other screening options
Next, read These Four Crucial Symptoms May Mean You Heave Prostate Cancer.