Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers that occur in men. It occurs when the cells in the prostate gland start to grow abnormally, leading to a formation of tumour. Common symptoms include both urinary and non-urinary complications, such as difficulty in or frequent urination, weak urine flow, pain in the pelvic area, blood in the urine or semen, unexplained weight loss, and swelling in the legs or feet.
Like all cancers, prostate cancer risk can also be cut down with certain preventive measures. But it is also important to understand and assess the common factors that put you at risk. Let’s take a look at all the aspects.
Who Is Most Prone To Prostate Cancer?
Alarming evidence suggests that prostate cancer accounted for an estimated 14 lakh new cancer cases and 3.75 lakh deaths in 2020. According to data published in the Indian Journal of Urology (IJU), prostate cancer cases in India for the periods 2010, 2015, and 2020 were estimated as 26,120, 28,079, and 30,185, respectively.
Also Read: PSA Test For Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: Things Men Need To Know About It
Some of the common risk factors include:
- Age, especially people aged 50 and above
- A family history of prostate cancer
- African-American men
- Certain inherited gene mutations
- Obesity
- High intake of red meat and low intake of fruits/vegetables
- High levels of testosterone or other hormones
- Chronic inflammation of the prostate
Vitamin D Deficiency Can Also Increase Prostate Cancer Risk
Surprisingly, vitamin D deficiency is also seen as a major risk factor for prostate cancer. Researchers associated with a study published in the Journal Oncotarget observed people with prostate cancer having lower levels of vitamin D in their body, adding that prostate cancer was more severe in those with the lowest vitamin D levels. In addition, they found a link between low vitamin D and higher levels of inflammation in people with prostate cancer.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Soumita Biswas, Chief Nutritionist, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru, says, “Patients suffering from prostate cancer have low levels of vitamin D, whereas men with healthy levels of vitamin D have lower chances of death from prostate cancer.”
Adding to the explanation, Dr Pramod S, Uro-oncologist and Robotic Surgeon, Apollo Clinic, Bengaluru, shares, “Men living in ice cold areas with less exposure to sunlight-derived ultraviolet exposure have a higher risk of death from prostate cancer."
Also Read: The Vitamin That Can Reduce Your Risk Of Prostate Cancer: How To Get Optimum Levels
How To Reduce The Risk Of Prostate Cancer
According to Dr Anita Aggarwal, Chief of Radiology, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, New Delhi, effective treatment outcomes for a variety of medical illnesses, including cancer, depend greatly on early detection. This means the earlier the diagnosis, the better and more effective the treatments.
She adds, "When identified early, many medical disorders, including cancer, have improved prognosis. When the disease is still contained to one area of the body and has not spread to other sections of the body, treatment success rates are often greater."
In addition, an earlier diagnosis and course of therapy can improve the patient's overall quality of life, the doctor emphasises. However, it is best to adhere to ways that help reduce the risk of cancer in the first place. Measures include:
- Choose a low-fat diet, including lean meats, low-fat dairy, and limited fats like oils and nuts
- Increase daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in cancer-fighting nutrients
- Reduce dairy product intake, as high dairy consumption may be associated with a slightly elevated prostate cancer risk
- Maintain a healthy weight by controlling calorie intake and engaging in regular exercise
- Incorporate exercise into your routine, aiming for at least 30 minutes most days of the week
- Consult your doctor about your prostate cancer risk, especially if you have elevated risk factors
- Consider medications or other risk reduction options if you have a very high risk of prostate cancer, as recommended by your healthcare provider
Bottomline
Prostate cancer is a life-threatening disease which usually occurs in men aged 50 and above. However, younger people should also stay vigilant and get screened regularly. Taking necessary steps and going for regular checkups helps get prompt and effective treatment. Moreover, watch out for any symptoms associated with prostate cancer and do not overlook it or confuse it with other benign conditions. Remember, staying one step ahead of the disease is always a better approach to ensure overall health and well-being.