Many of us will have heard the sad news that the Olympian cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy has been diagnosed with primary cancer in his prostate, which has spread to his bones and is now terminal. This is a sobering reminder that even the most physically fit and healthy people can fall prey to disease.
Despite the devastating prognosis of just two to four years, the 48-year-old remains positive. He posted a message on Instagram: “You may see in the news this weekend some articles about my health, so I just wanted to reassure you all that I’m feeling fit, strong and positive, and overwhelmed by all the love and support shown to my family and me. Onwards!”
Practical tips for men to maintain a healthy prostate
As this sad story shows, it’s not possible to completely avoid all risk of prostate cancer. However, prostate cancer is usually slow-growing, and if caught in the early stages, it’s possible to treat it successfully. Therefore it’s important to understand the risk factors and learn how to manage them. Here are some practical tips to support good prostate health.
Keep fit
A Swedish study published earlier this year found that men can reduce their risk of prostate cancer by up to 35 per cent by modestly boosting their cardio fitness levels by just 3 per cent per year. The Guardian reports that the study analysed data on the physical activity levels, height and body mass index of 57,652 men to reach this conclusion.
Simon Grieveson, assistant director of research at Prostate Cancer UK, who was not involved in the study, said: “This is an interesting piece of research that adds to previous studies showing possible links between exercise and a lower likelihood of getting prostate cancer.”
“Regularly keeping fit and eating a balanced diet are good for every man’s general health and wellbeing – however, we don’t know definitively whether physical activity can lower a man’s risk of getting, or dying from, prostate cancer.”
Matt Lambert, the health information and promotion manager at World Cancer Research Fund, said: “It is widely known that having a higher level of cardiorespiratory fitness is important for our health and longevity, but it can also be protective against certain diseases.”
“This insightful study adds to the evidence around how risk factors such as fitness may play a role in reducing men’s risk of prostate cancer.”
Go for regular screenings
There is no national screening for prostate cancer in the UK, but you are entitled to request a test through your GP. Men who are over 50 are advised to request regular screenings, which can be done with a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test, or in some cases a physical examination.
Men who have a family history of prostate cancer may need to begin regular checkups before the age of 50.
Stay sexually active
There is some evidence to suggest that maintaining a healthy sex life can contribute to good prostate health. Men who are experiencing problems such as erectile dysfunction (ED) or low libido are advised to seek medical help. ED can be the sign of another underlying health condition or low testosterone.
Once any other issues have been ruled out, men may be advised to try a course of medication such as Cialis, which is highly effective for most men and can be bought cheaply online under the name Tadalafil.
Consume alcohol in moderation
Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of many types of cancer, as well as several other serious diseases. The recommended maximum alcohol units for men is 14 per week, which is the equivalent of about six pints of average-strength beer or about seven standard glasses of wine.
It’s best to spread out the units evenly throughout the week, rather than binge drink on one or two days. If possible, have at least three alcohol-free days per week to allow your body time to recover.
Eat a well-balanced diet and manage weight
There is a substantial amount of medical evidence that shows men who are overweight or obese are more at risk of developing many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Therefore following a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat and sugar and high in vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains can have a protective effect.
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