A prostate cancer diagnosis means you have a malignant tumor or adenocarcinoma in your prostate gland. Prostate cancer is on the rise in the United States, with more than 241,000 men diagnosed each year. The disease typically progresses slowly and presents symptoms only in its late stages. Men with prostate cancer have high levels of prostate-specific antigen or PSA, and diagnostics and screening tests usually involve testing for PSA levels.
According to the American Cancer Society, about one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. If you are worried about developing the condition, know that despite there being no sure way to prevent it, there are ways to lower your risk.
How to Prevent Prostate Cancer
There are some risk factors associated with prostate cancer that are not within your control. Some of these factors include age, race, and genetics. After the age of 69, your risk of getting prostate cancer increases. The same is true if someone in your immediate family was diagnosed with prostate cancer – especially if they were diagnosed before the age of 55.
To decrease your risk of getting prostate cancer, the key is to focus on factors that can be controlled such as weight, stress, and lifestyle.
● Eat fruits and vegetables every day
● Eat fish rich in omega-3s
● Be physically active and exercise regularly
● Maintain a healthy weight
● Get enough vitamin D
● Avoid junk food, greasy foods, and trans fats
● Avoid smoking
● Drink alcohol in moderation
● Invest in stress-reduction techniques
● Keep a positive outlook and enjoy life
Studies show that men who are vitamin-D deficient due to their environment, such as belonging to states with less sunlight, have the highest risk of developing prostate cancer than anywhere else in the United States. In fact, the southern states rank lowest in prostate cancer cases.
Fortunately, Arizona gets a lot of sun and warm weather. However, prostate cancer is still a reality and concern for residents in the state. In 2019, there were 2,800 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer in Arizona.
Preventing Prostate Cancer
If you are over 60 and prostate cancer runs in your family, prostate cancer screenings help detect problems early on. Early detection helps you and your doctor fight the disease more effectively and gives better results.
Dr. Desi Avila of Ironwood Urology is a board-certified urologist and an expert at diagnosing and treating men’s health conditions, including diseases of the prostate like cancer. Dr. Avila discusses treatment options with you to help you make an informed decision about your treatment.
The support of a knowledgeable and experienced doctor can be a tremendous help in preventing the development of prostate cancer. Dr. Avila will work with you to understand your risk and recommend ways to reduce it. He will also recommend regular screenings based on your risk level to ensure that if you get prostate cancer, it is caught early.
Prostate Cancer Prevention and Treatment in Phoenix, Arizona
In our clinic in Phoenix, Arizona, you will receive comprehensive and compassionate treatment. Our goal is to prevent disease – not just treat it. This is why we put effort in preventing conditions like prostate cancer from developing.
To schedule an appointment at Ironwood Urology to discuss your risk of prostate cancer and how you can reduce it, please call (480) 961-2323 or request an appointment now.
