Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among men, and it’s important to take steps to reduce the risk. Fortunately, there are a variety of strategies that can be used to help decrease the likelihood of developing prostate cancer. This blog post will discuss five ways to reduce your risk of prostate cancer and help you take control of your health.
Get Regular Health Screenings
Getting regular health screenings can be an important part of reducing your risk for prostate cancer. Many doctors recommend that men aged 50 or over get a yearly prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test as well as a digital rectal exam (DRE). Prostate cancer testing can help identify any potential signs or symptoms of prostate cancer before they become more serious. Additionally, if you have any other risk factors such as family history, then your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is another key strategy for reducing the risk of developing prostate cancer. Filling up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help provide your body with essential nutrients while also helping to maintain a healthy weight. Furthermore, research has suggested that diets high in certain types of fat (such as trans fats) may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, so avoiding processed foods and sticking to natural sources can be beneficial in this regard.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise is also important when it comes to decreasing the risk for prostate cancer. Not only does physical activity promote good overall health but studies have shown that exercise can also play a role in reducing the likelihood of developing certain cancers including prostate cancer. Aiming for at least 30 minutes per day is recommended by many doctors although more vigorous exercise may further reduce your risk.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking has been linked to many types of cancers including prostate cancer so avoiding cigarettes and other tobacco products is highly recommended if you want to reduce your risk for this type of disease. Additionally, research suggests that second-hand smoke may also increase the likelihood of developing certain types of cancers including those affecting the lungs and throat as well as potentially increasing the chances for developing prostate cancer too, so avoiding exposure to other people’s smoking habits whenever possible is also advised if you want to stay healthy in this regard.
Supplement Wisely
There are certain vitamins and minerals which have been linked with decreased risks for certain types of cancers including those affecting the reproductive system such as prostate cancer; however, taking too much or taking supplements without consulting with your doctor first can be dangerous so it’s best not to self-medicate in this way but instead make sure you speak with a healthcare professional before beginning any supplementation regimen or changing any existing supplements you may already be taking regularly such as multivitamins.
Reducing your chances for getting prostate cancer doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle; there are several strategies that you can use that don’t require drastic changes or lifestyle overhauls either! By following these five simple yet effective strategies outlined above—including getting regular checkups from your doctor, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking—you will put yourself on track towards better overall health which includes reducing your chances for developing various cancers including those affecting the reproductive system such as prostate cancer specifically. To learn more about how best protect yourself against these diseases be sure to talk with both your doctor and nutritionist.
Written by: Lizzie Weakley
About the author: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.