The prostate and seminal vesicles are key parts of the male reproductive system. The prostate, about the size of a walnut, sits below the bladder and surrounds the urethra. Adjacent to it are two pairs of smaller glands called seminal vesicles. Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the prostate gland. (However, not all abnormal growths are cancerous. Some may be non-cancerous)
Prostate cancer is influenced by various risk factors, including obesity, race, diet, age (typically over 50 years), and family history. According to the National Cancer Institute, prostate cancer is the leading cancer diagnosis among men and the second most common diagnosis overall, with an estimated 299,010 new cases expected.
Prostate cancer, a condition affecting men globally, originates in the cells of the prostate gland, explains Dr Jaspreet S. Sandhu, MD, a Urologic Surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre, New York. “This gland plays a crucial role in producing seminal fluid to nourish and transport sperm.” says Dr. Sandhu and highlights that abnormalities in the DNA of these cells can lead to abnormal tumor growth. “While some cases progress slowly and pose minimal threat, others can be highly aggressive, demanding immediate medical intervention. In India, prostate cancer ranks among the top ten most common cancers, predominantly affecting men over 65, with a 5-year survival rate of 64 percent," he adds.
Dr Sandhu suggests these proactive measures for prostate cancer prevention.
Reduce fat intake: Minimise consumption of trans fats and saturated fats. Instead, focus on healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids found in nuts, seeds, and fish.
Eat more fruits and vegetables: Introduce a diverse array of fruits and vegetables into your diet, particularly leafy greens. Tomatoes, rich in the antioxidant lycopene, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, containing sulforaphane, have shown promise in slowing prostate cancer cell growth.
Avoid charring meat: Steer clear of charred meat, as cooking methods such as frying or grilling at high temperatures may produce carcinogenic compounds.
Watch your weight: Obesity is linked to a higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer, emphasising the importance of weight management to reduce cancer risk and promote good health.
Physical activity is important: Exercise not only aids in keeping your weight in check but also reduces inflammation, boosts immune function, and counteracts the adverse effects of a sedentary lifestyle, all contributing to cancer prevention.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake: Stop smoking to decrease cancer risk and consume alcohol in moderation. While antioxidants found in red wine, such as resveratrol, may offer some protective effects against certain diseases, excessive alcohol consumption can outweigh these potential benefits and increase the risk of alcohol-related harm.
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