Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men in Canada, ranking as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Can it be prevented? This article highlights habits you can adopt to reduce your risk.
Prostate cancer by the numbers
In 2024, nearly a quarter of all new cancer cases in men are projected to be prostate cancer. Sadly, around 5,000 Canadian men are expected to lose their lives to this disease, accounting for over 10% of all male cancer deaths this year. These figures emphasize the need for greater awareness and regular health check-ups.
On a positive note, prostate cancer mortality rates have steadily decreased since 1995, thanks to advancements in treatment and earlier detection through targeted screening campaigns. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Who is at risk?
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer, including:
Age
The risk increases significantly after 50.
Family history
A close relative with prostate cancer raises your risk.
Excess weight
Obesity and being overweight are associated with a higher risk.
Diet
High consumption of saturated fats and red meat has been linked to an increased risk.
Ethnicity
African men are more prone to this type of cancer.
Tabagisme
Like many cancers, tobacco use increases the risk of prostate cancer.
What can you do to lower your risk?
While there's no foolproof way to prevent prostate cancer, certain healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk and improve overall well-being.
Maintain a healthy weight
Since excess weight and obesity are well-established risk factors, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight throughout life. This can be achieved by adopting a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity.
Stay active
Regular physical activity is key in preventing various illnesses, including prostate cancer. You don’t need to be an elite athlete—even a few minutes of moderate exercise daily, like walking, cycling, or swimming, can make a difference. Studies have shown that regular exercise can help lower the risk of certain cancers, including prostate cancer.
Eat a healthy diet
Diet plays a crucial role in cancer risk reduction. Cutting back on saturated fats and red meat can have positive effects. Additionally, certain nutrients found in food may help prevent prostate cancer. For example, lycopene, an antioxidant in tomatoes, and selenium in nuts and legumes may offer protective benefits.
It can also be helpful to replace red meat with healthier protein sources, such as chicken or fish. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, such as salmon or mackerel, provide additional health benefits.
Should you take supplements?
While some people consider taking supplements to fill dietary gaps, getting nutrients from a varied and balanced diet is generally best. Excessive supplementation, such as with calcium, can even increase the risk of prostate cancer. Before starting any supplements, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional to determine if they’re necessary.
Quit smoking
The link between smoking and cancer is well-established. Smoking cessation is one of the best decisions you can make for your overall health. Besides reducing the risk of prostate cancer, quitting smoking also lowers the risks of several other cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
If you’re considering quitting, reach out to your healthcare provider for support and resources to help you on your journey.
The importance of screening
Early screening is essential for improving survival rates with prostate cancer. Screening typically includes a rectal exam and a blood test to measure PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels. While these tests may seem uncomfortable, they are critical for detecting early signs of cancer.
It’s recommended to discuss with your doctor when and how often you should get these tests, especially if you have risk factors.
In conclusion
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits like maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and participating in recommended screenings can help lower your risk of developing prostate cancer. While no strategy can completely prevent the disease, these actions can significantly improve your overall health.