June 21 2021 – June is Men’s Health Awareness Month and if 2020 taught us anything, it’s that taking care of one’s health is important. Research shows that men are 44 percent more likely to develop cancer compared to women. According to the National Cancer Institute, about 12.5 percent of men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
Although this figure encompasses men from various backgrounds, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reported that African American men are 1.7 times likely to have cases of prostate cancer than non-Hispanic white men based on data from 2012-2016.
While many factors contribute to the development of prostate cancer, there are ways to lower your risk.
So, how can you take an active role in your health? Here are five tips that you can do to protect your prostate:
1.Routine check-ups
Keeping up on annual wellness check-ups and health screenings can help you stay informed about your health. During screenings, your physician can spot early signs of prostate cancer and discuss proper treatment.
2.What’s on your plate?
A diet of fruits and vegetables, rich in antioxidants, may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Eating less red and processed meats and processed foods is also beneficial, not just for reducing cancer risks but for your overall health.
3.Time to move!
There is no set routine for staying active. While you don’t have to get up and run a full marathon, exercising throughout the week can lower your risk of developing prostate cancer. Examples of physical activities include, but are not limited to: going for walks or runs, swimming, and going for a bike ride.
4.Balancing the Scale
Getting exercise and eating well can help you maintain a healthy weight as well as lose weight. Visit your primary physician for proper guidance and recommendations.
5.Talk to Your Family
It is good to know your family’s history with prostate cancer. If you have family members who have been diagnosed with it before age 65, it is recommended that you get screened. As mentioned before, African American men are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Screening for this group can start as early as age 45. For more guidance on when to begin screening, talk to your doctor.
There is no better time to get proactive about your health than now. These are just five tips to remaining healthy this month and for a lifetime. If you need a primary care physician to get your health on track, find a doctor near you by visiting BrowardHealth.org/Find-Doctor.
By Mehmet Hepgur, MD, hematologist-oncologist at Broward Health North Cancer Center
