Did you know that several thousands of men die of prostate cancer every year? According to data, in the United States, approximately 30,000 men die of this disease every year, while in the United Kingdom, almost 12,000 annual deaths are reported.
An overview of prostate cancer – What is prostate cancer and how dangerous is it?
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers that affect men. It is a type of cancer that attacks the prostate, which is a small gland shaped like a walnut found in front of the rectum, between the penis and the bladder, and whose primary function is to secrete a fluid that makes up about 70% of the semen that nourishes and lubricates the sperm.
Usually, prostate cancer can occur without triggering noticeable signs and symptoms. It grows gradually, and typically just stays in the prostate gland, requiring minimal or zero treatment at all. However, some prostate cancer can be quite aggressive and spread very quickly, needing medical attention at the earliest opportunity.
Warning signs of prostate cancer – What are the common symptoms of prostate cancer?
A large number of men who have prostate cancer do not experience visible signs and symptoms in the early stages of the disease. However, the moment the prostate gland becomes enlarged, this is when a variety of pains and discomforts can occur, including:
The urge to urinate more frequently than usual- Painful urination
- Weakened stream of urine
- Blood in the semen
- Pain and discomfort in the pelvic region
- Bone and joint pain
- Trouble getting and maintaining erections for sex
- Reduce libido or sex drive
The urge to urinate more frequently than usualOnce you come upon these signs and symptoms, you should go visit your doctor as soon as possible. Early detection and immediate treatment of prostate cancer can save you from a lot of serious complications that can significantly lower the quality of your life.
Causes of prostate cancer – What things can possibly cause prostate cancer?
Unfortunately, medical experts and health professionals have not found a definitive answer to the question, “What causes prostate cancer?” What they do know is that this disease occurs when some cells in the prostate manifest abnormalities or mutations, causing them to grow, develop, and divide much more quickly than the normal cells. Over time, the abnormal cells can accumulate and create a tumor that can attack the healthy cells and tissues in the prostate and nearby organs, spreading the cancer and causing more harm and damage to the body.
Risk factors for prostate cancer – What factors increase your odds of having prostate cancer?
No man is safe from prostate cancer. However, there are certain men that are more likely to have it than others. The following are examples of risk factors linked to prostate cancer:
- Old age
The risk of prostate cancer has a directly proportional relationship to a man’s age. This means that your risk of getting prostate cancer increases as you grow older. Various research studies have found that most cases of prostate cancer occur in men who are 50 years old or older.
- Family history
Having a family member — such as a grandfather, father, or uncle — that has had prostate cancer makes you more likely to have the disease than someone who has no male relatives who have had it.
- Obesity
According to studies, men who are obese and have prostate cancer have a higher likelihood of having a more advanced prostate cancer that is quite difficult to treat.
Prostate cancer prevention – What can you do to protect against prostate cancer?
Living a healthy lifestyle is the most effective natural way to prevent prostate cancer. You should be ready to start making smarter and healthier lifestyle choices to remain cancer-free and healthy for many years. The following are highly recommended lifestyle changes that you should do to lower your risk of prostate cancer:
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Eat fruits and vegetables
The kinds of foods that you eat are key to your prostate health. They should be rich in essential vitamins and minerals so that your vital organs and systems can efficiently carry out their functions day in and day out. You can get the nutrients that your body needs for optimal prostate health and overall health from various fruits and vegetables.
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Be more physically active
There are many health benefits you can get from exercising. Through regular exercise, you can enhance your bone and muscle strength, heart health, brain function, and others, allowing you to be at your best physically and mentally at all times.
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Lose weight
If you are overweight or obese, you should start losing weight now to not put your prostate health in danger. You can achieve that by eating more foods that are nutrient-dense and less foods that are high in fat, salt, and sugar. You can also try calorie counting and 
portion control, so as not to go over your recommended daily calorie limit to effectively lose weight.
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See a doctor
A doctor’s visit is essential in monitoring your prostate health. Your doctor should be able to answer your questions regarding prostate and prostate cancer and give advice on what you should do to keep your prostate happy and healthy for a very long time. In addition, they can do routine prostate checks and prostate exams to see if there is anything threatening your prostate, and diagnose and treat the disease before it causes severe harm and damage.
Prostate-friendly foods – What are examples of foods that are beneficial to the prostate?
Eating a healthy and nutritious diet can reduce your risk of prostate cancer. Below are some nutrient-dense foods that can help keep your prostate healthy and prevent prostate cancer and other prostate threats:
- Berries
These are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, which are essential nutrients that can fight off free radicals.
- Watermelon
This is rich in vitamin A and vitamin C, as well as in lycopene, which is a substance that can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
- Fatty fish
This is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that can help in cholesterol management and prostate health.
