Prostate Cancer
THE BAD NEWS
Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer among men! It kills thousands of men each year and is the second most common cause of cancer deaths behind lung cancer.1 It’s also genetic.
THE GOOD NEWS
Most of the time prostate cancer is slow growing and can be treated before it becomes a problem.
Important Information:
What you need to know, if you do not already, is that prostate cancer is not your typical cancer. More people die with prostate cancer than of prostate cancer. It is even unclear who needs to be screened for the disease. The American Cancer Society (ACS) currently recommends that men begin discussing the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screening with their doctors at age 50 (or earlier if they are black or have a family history of the disease) in order make an informed decision about whether or not they want to be screened.2
What Can You Do to Decrease Your Risk?
Decrease the fat in your diet! A high-fat diet has been linked to a higher incidence of prostate cancer. (See Nutrition and Fats). Unfortunately, it has been shown that taking Vitamins C and/or E and/or selenium does not reduce the risk of prostate cancer and does not help fight the cancer if you already have it. Ultimately, you should stay informed and talk to your doctor about the disease, your risk factors, and the advantages and disadvantages of screening for the disease and treatment options if you have it.
EMG Health Homepage: Men’s Health Introduction
External Resources: The Prostate Cancer Foundation