Last Updated on 13th January 2025 by Charlie Walsh
While prostate cancer isn’t something most guys want to think about – especially in their 20s and 30s – cases of advanced prostate cancer are on the rise in the US. And while there’s no way to safeguard your crown jewels from the big C – as cancer doesn’t discriminate – there are some choices you can make that reduce the likelihood of you developing it. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Think of your prostate as an engine part – when it works, you don’t notice it. But when something goes wrong, it affects the whole system. Prostate cancer occurs when cells in this gland start multiplying out of control, and while it’s rare before 40, your prevention strategy should start early.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
Before we get into some tips and start going on about the benefits of prostate massage, one point is worth noting. Unfortunately – as is the truth when it comes to many forms of cancer – some cards are dealt at birth, and your genetics and family history can stack the deck against you. For example, if your father or brother had prostate cancer, your risk doubles. African American men also face higher risks and often encounter more aggressive forms of prostate cancer, for reasons that scientists haven’t yet figured out. But here’s the good news: many risk factors are under your control.
How to Reduce Risk of Prostate Cancer
Healthy Diet
You don’t need to become a health nut, but your diet matters. Think of food as the fuel and medicine that you feed your body with every day; the better the fuel, the better your body is going to perform. Research shows that men who regularly eat specific foods have better prostate health, so load up on tomato-based foods, leafy greens, and fatty fish.
Regular Exercise
Another boring one, but regular physical activity is non-negotiable for prostate health, as well as your overall sexual health. Three to four weekly sessions of weight training combined with cardio can significantly lower your risk, plus it helps maintain healthy testosterone levels – a win-win.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Connection Between Obesity and Prostate Cancer
Extra weight isn’t just about looks – it messes with your hormones and increases inflammation, two factors that can trigger prostate problems. To combat this? Skip the crash diets. Focus on sustainable habits like meal prep, smart snacking, and portion control. You don’t need to deprive yourself of the finer things in life or order a salad every time you go out – but making smart choices do pay dividends in the future.
And hey, the money you might’ve spent monthly on Ubereats and eating out – use it to invest in a high quality dick pump for stronger, thicker erections and better performance.
Regular Screenings and Check-Ups
Importance of Routine Exams
Yeah, prostate exams aren’t fun. But neither is cancer. It’s generally recommended that you should start getting routine checks at 45 (earlier if you’re high-risk*), as this gives you the best shot at catching issues early.
Understanding PSA Tests
If you’re looking to check yourself for prostate cancer, you’ll likely do what’s called a PSA antigen test, which is a blood test designed to measure a specific protein in your blood that can indicate prostate problems and the presence of prostate cancer. Generally speaking, there’s not much use in trying to decipher these tests yourself. Instead, have your doctor explain your results and what your results mean going forward.
Avoiding Tobacco and Limiting Alcohol
The Impact of Smoking on Prostate Health
Smoking doesn’t just wreck your lungs – it impacts every system in your body, including your prostate. If you’re still a smoker, quitting is your best defense, not just against prostate cancer but a number of tobacco-related illnesses and diseases.
Stress Management and Mental Health
The Role of Stress in Cancer Risk
While we might consider stress to be a mental or psychological condition, chronic stress actually has real-life implications on your body, including an increased risk of cancer. And while it’s impossible to avoid stress entirely in your day-to-day life, there are ways to manage it. Typically, finding the source of the stress can help: whether it’s a toxic job, a relationship, or your own self-imposed career pressure, try to find effective ways to bring down your stress levels. Finding productive hobbies can help – whether it’s lifting weights, meditation, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Final Thoughts
To sum things up, don’t wait for warning signs to start thinking about prostate health. The habits you build today are your insurance policy for tomorrow, so schedule that check-up, adjust your diet, and get moving. Your future self – and your crown jewels – will thank you.
