I am 53. How do I stay healthy and prevent prostate cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 53-year-old male with a family history of prostate cancer. I also have type 2 diabetes and am trying to stay healthy. I have heard that adopting a plant-based diet can help prevent prostate cancer. Is there any truth to this? Could you also share strategies and lifestyle changes to help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for reaching out.

Prostate cancer is a common cancer in men that starts in the prostate gland, a small organ below the bladder. The treatment depends on the stage of the disease, biopsy results, and the molecular profile.

Causes of prostate cancer:

Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases with age.
Genetics: Inherited gene mutations account for five to 10 percent of prostate cancer cases. Additionally, genetic changes acquired during one’s lifetime can raise the risk.
Family History: Having a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 60 significantly increases your risk.
Obesity: Research indicates that obesity is linked to an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.
Diet: Diets high in calcium and red meat are associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer. Conversely, a plant-based diet may reduce the risk.

Screening and prevention

Prostate cancer screening usually starts at age 50. However, given your family history of malignancy, it is advisable to consider early screening for prostate and bowel cancer.

To reduce the risk of prostate cancer, I suggest the following:

Limit consumption of red meat and animal fats.
Emphasize a vegetarian diet rich in protective foods such as broccoli, tomatoes, green tea, vitamin E, and soy products.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.