The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder in men. It is about the size of a walnut and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body. The primary function of the prostate is to produce and secrete a clear, white fluid that forms a part of semen that helps to nourish and protect the sperm.
As men age, the prostate may enlarge and become more prone to certain conditions such as: Prostate cancer: The growth of cancerous cells in the prostate; Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): enlargement of the prostate gland due to age; and Prostatitis: infection or inflammation of the prostate. Up to 16 out of 100 men will have an inflamed prostate at some point in their lives, which is a problem that can cause pain. This can happen to men of any age. Men over the age of 40 should carry out routine prostate checks. If a man has stress or anxiety, it may make the problem worse. If he has other pains that don’t go away, he may be more likely to have this problem. Having an inflamed prostate cannot be spread to other people. Regular prostate exams and screenings are important to detect any potential issues early on and treat them effectively to maintain overall health and wellness.
Care for the Prostate
There are many things we can’t control which can make a person prone to prostate disease such as age, race, and family history. However, it is clinically proven that healthier lifestyle choices can reduce the chance of prostate disease. Some ways that we can care for the prostate include:
Exercise: Regular physical activity is known to enhance overall health, mood, and weight management. There is evidence to suggest that individuals who choose to lead a sedentary lifestyle may experience elevated PSA levels, while those who engage in physical activity may enjoy a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy weight can be a significant factor in reducing the risk of developing aggressive forms of prostate cancer. Exercise has been shown to elevate muscle mass and improve the efficiency of metabolic processes, highlighting the numerous benefits of integrating physical activity into one’s daily routine.
Avoid Smoking: smoke, the risk of recurrence is significantly higher than for non-smokers. In addition, smokers have a higher risk of dying from prostate cancer than non-smokers. It is highly recommended for men who are battling prostate cancer or those who have been diagnosed with the condition in the past to quit ciggarette smoking.
While quitting smoking can be challenging, there are many resources and strategies available to help those who are ready to take the first step. From support groups and nicotine replacement therapies to counseling and medication, there are many ways to quit smoking and stay smoke-free.
Healthy Dietary Choices: It has been observed and recommended that maintaining a healthy diet may help to reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men. The incorporation of specific types of foods into one’s diet has shown to have significant preventative benefits. For example, tomatoes and other red foods, such as watermelon, guava, and pawpaw, owe their vibrant hue to a mighty antioxidant called lycopene. Scientific research suggests that cooking tomatoes, in particular, can enhance the body’s ability to absorb lycopene. Moreover, it is widely acknowledged that vine-ripened tomatoes contain higher levels of lycopene than their pale and early-picked counterparts. Studies have demonstrated that men who regularly consume tomato-based products and these associated fruits exhibit a lower risk of developing prostate cancer than those who do not.
Regular Medical Checks: Upon reaching the age of 40, it is recommended that men take into consideration the significance of regular screening for prostate cancer, particularly individuals with a familial history of the disease. The objective of screening for prostate cancer is to detect high-risk, localized prostate cancer that can be adequately managed, thus reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. It is highly advised that men speak with their healthcare provider before undergoing any testing to screen for prostate cancer. Prior to opting for a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test, a blood test for detecting prostate cancer, and digital rectal examination, men should have a clear understanding of the potential benefits and risks associated with testing. For men between the ages of 55 to 69 years, the decision to undergo intermittent PSA-based screening for prostate cancer should be an independent decision.
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