Health for Body Mind and Soul

To screen or not to screen? Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men and is the third most frequent cause of cancer deaths. Prostate cancer screenings for prostate specific antigen (PSA) or digital rectal exams are two of the tests used in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. The question now being raised is how effective are they with regards to outcomes.

Researchers compared men who were screened annually for prostate cancer using these tests with those receiving their usual care. While more men in the screening group were diagnosed with prostate cancer, there was no difference in the number of deaths from either group.

Earlier guidelines recommended that men falling in the high risk group for prostate cancer (Black men, or men with immediate family members diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65), begin conversations regarding prostate cancer screening with their health care provider at age 45, or at age 40 if they had several family members who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. These guidelines are being revised.

In addition to the findings that PSA and DRE screenings do not impact the outcomes of prostate cancer, there are also concerns about the number of false positive PSA results. As men age their PSA levels also increase. Having two or more sexual activities days prior to being tested can also lead to false positive PSA results. Robert Mayer, MD, with Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, USA, notes that “less than 10 percent of men with prostate cancer ever die of the disease.” The harm from false positive results though can be very distressing psychologically and physically due to additional testing and biopsies, and possible infections. Additional harm following treatment may include urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, bowel dysfunction and even death (Peres, 2012).

Whether you decide to be screened or not, you can benefit from lifestyle interventions which may decrease your risk of prostate cancer. These interventions include good nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep/rest, exposure to sunlight, adequate water intake, and maintaining an ideal body weight.

Excess body fat especially that which is stored around the abdomen, secretes hormones and proteins that can lead to inflammation and oxidation in the body’s cells, which contribute to the development and progression of prostate cancer. Inflammation leads to the loss of protective antioxidants which can progress to damage of normal DNA from free radical, and ultimately cancer growth.

Certain dietary factors contribute to the production of carcinogens.

•   Overcooking meats at high temperatures

•   Charbroiling red meat or chicken with the skin intact

Much consideration should be given to sugar in the diet. Sugar is found in most processed foods, and is the prime energy source for many cancers. The more excess sugar is consumed in the diet, the more the cancer is stimulated, and the faster it grows. Cutting back on sugar, eating a healthy diet and participating in a regular exercise program can help to slow tumor growth (Prostate Cancer Foundation).

 Cancer Fighting Foods

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances are found in colorful fruits and vegetables, which serve to counteract damage from oxidation and inflammation. The following list includes some of these fruits and vegetables:

•  Tomatoes and tomato products, guava and watermelon contain lycopene (antioxidant) which may reduce prostate cancer risk
•  Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, papayas, peaches contain vitamin C, and flavanoids which may inhibit tumor cell growth
•  Cruciferous vegetables – broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower may eliminate carcinogens
•  Garlic, onions, chives and asparagus destroy cancer cells, reduce cell division, and support the immune system
•  Blueberries, purple grapes, and plums contain anthocyanins which destroy free radicals
•  Fiber found in whole grains and legumes help with removal of carcinogens (The Cancer Project).

Prevention is better than cure. Make these choices a part of your daily lifestyle practices.

This website does not provide medical or legal advice. This website is created for information purposes.