It's a Guy Thing: the Lowdown on Prostate Cancer Prevention

Not many people like going to the doctor.

And when seeing your physician has to do with the prostate, you can double that notion.  

Hey, we get it. The digital rectal exam is not like going to Disney World. There’s no need to get into details.

But Physicians First Messages is here to remind you that if you’re, obviously, a man that’s at least 50-years-old,
getting an annual exam and ensuing PSA test are not only important, but they could save your life.

Here’s a few facts and recommendations that could be helpful: 

For starters, did you know prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States? Yes, it’s true.

And to boot, the risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age. In fact, according to WebMD, out of every
100 men over the age of 60, six will have prostate cancer before their 70th birthday.

Unfortunately, there’s no specific way to prevent prostate cancer, but many studies suggest diet plays a key role.

Here’s the first helpful tip: Did you know that men who consume tomatoes, watermelon and other red foods, all of
which include an antioxidant called lycopene, have a lower risk of getting prostate cancer?

Eating fish, drinking green tea and even coffee are also believed to be good in preventing prostate cancer as well.

And how about this one: Eat more garlic. The Journal of the National Cancer Institute recently published a study
that found men who consume 10 or more grams of garlic or scallions per day decrease their risk of developing
prostate cancer by approximately 50 percent compared to those who eat less than two grams.

Obviously, keep those breath mints handy if you decide to follow the previous recommendation.

No shock here … those who smoke are prone to get prostate cancer in a more aggressive form. 

Another reason to kick the smoking habit!

And it is recommended that men at high risk, such as African American men and men with a strong family history of prostate cancer, begin testing at age 45. 

Leading a healthy lifestyle, such as daily exercising, is also believed to help prevent getting prostate cancer.

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Listen, following any of the previous suggestions can certainly help.

And if nothing else, eating healthy will help you physically in a number of ways, not just preventing prostate cancer.

But the most important thing is, get your annual examination and PSA blood test, no matter how much it makes you cringe.

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Remember, the earlier you know, the better the chance you’ll survive.


Sincerely,

John Calhoun
Owner and operator