Did you know that every man is at risk of prostate problems? As men enter their 40s, this risk increases, but there are ways you can take your prostate health into your own hands. Let’s take a look at 5 changes you can implement in your life to lower the risk of prostate-related issues.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Regular exercise can help to reduce excess weight in the abdomen, which is often linked to inflammation or hormonal imbalances in the prostate. Obesity is not a direct cause of prostate cancer, but can increase your risk of benign prostate hyperplasia.
Monitor Your Diet
Red meat consumption has been linked to the compound PhIP, which can increase your risk of prostate cancer. By eating a diverse diet of lean meats, leafy greens, fruits and nuts and eliminating sugary drinks and processed food, you can improve your prostate health.
Lower Your Stress
Nobody enjoys feeling stressed out, and neither does your body! Prostate inflammation and enlargement have been connected to excess levels of cortisol and testosterone. Simple ways to lower your stress levels include: better sleep, self-care (hobbies, exercise, diet, etc.), managing your time effectively and engaging with your social circle.
Reduce Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking is among the leading causes of death in U.S. men. Quitting smoking is not easy, but your body and your prostate will thank you. Overconsumption of alcohol is also problematic to prostate health, as it is both an inflammatory and a diuretic, causing uncomfortable symptoms in men with BPH.
Get Annual Prostate Screenings
Men older than 50 should be scheduling annual prostate screenings to monitor the health of their prostate. Your provider may also recommend regular exams for men aged 45 and younger, including African American men and patients with a family history of prostate cancer.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – the prostate is examined through the rectum to determine whether hard or lumpy areas known as nodules are present.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test – blood is drawn and tested for the presence of PSAs. Increased PSA levels can be an indicator of prostate cancer.
This month Arkansas Urology is offering free men’s health screenings, including a prostate cancer screening. Find one near you.
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