Prostate cancer has been a hot topic recently, especially after former President Joe Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive form of the disease. This news follows a report published in April in The Lancet, which predicts that the number of prostate cancer cases in the United States will double over the next 15 years. This increase is partly due to the aging population. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among American men.
While there are many treatment options for prostate cancer, prevention is always better than cure. Many people want to know how they can reduce their risk of getting cancer. When it comes to preventing diseases, including cancer, there are three levels of prevention.
The first level is primary prevention. This means staying healthy by adopting good habits like eating a balanced diet and staying active.
The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) recommends eating whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans. It also advises limiting fast food, sugary drinks, alcohol, and red or processed meats.
Additionally, it suggests not relying on supplements for cancer prevention and staying physically active. These recommendations are not only good for preventing cancer but also for maintaining overall health, including heart health.
However, there is no strong evidence that specific foods or nutrients can directly increase or decrease the risk of prostate cancer. Some limited evidence suggests that a lack of vitamin E or selenium, or a diet high in calcium and dairy products, might increase the risk. But these findings are not consistent, as some studies show increased risk while others do not. It is important to note that a diet rich in dairy has been shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Even with a healthy lifestyle, no one is completely immune to health problems. That’s why secondary prevention is important. This involves regular screening tests to detect problems early when they are easier to treat. Prostate cancer is usually diagnosed in men between the ages of 65 and 74. On average, a man has a 13% chance of being diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime. Early detection is crucial, although most men with prostate cancer do not die from it.
There is no universal agreement on when men should start getting blood tests for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. This decision depends on individual risk factors, such as race (Black men are at higher risk than white men) and family history. Men over 45 should discuss the pros and cons of PSA screening with their doctor.
The third level of prevention is tertiary prevention. This comes into play if someone is diagnosed with cancer. The focus then shifts to treatment and preventing the disease from getting worse. For cancer patients, following the above dietary recommendations can help, with adjustments to manage side effects like low appetite or nausea. Working with a registered dietitian who specializes in cancer care can be very helpful in navigating treatment and maintaining strength.
In summary, while there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle can help reduce the risk. Regular screening is also essential for early detection.
