Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but many people don’t think about it until they notice symptoms.
If you’ve been wondering how to prevent prostate cancer, the truth is there’s no guaranteed way to stop it. But certain lifestyle choices and habits may help lower your risk and support your overall health.
Understanding what affects your risk and what steps you can take now can help you stay proactive and feel more in control of your long-term health.
What Is the Prostate and What Does It Do?
The prostate is a small gland that sits below the bladder. It sits in front of the rectum.
It wraps around the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. It also helps make fluid that is part of semen.
Common Symptoms of Prostate Cancer to Watch For
Prostate cancer may not cause symptoms at first. But as it develops, you may notice changes in how you urinate or feel.
Symptoms of prostate cancer may include:
- Frequent urination
- Weak urine flow
- Blood in urine
- Bladder problems
- Pain in the pelvic area
- Sexual problems
Some people do not notice symptoms at all. That’s why routine screenings are important.
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer starts when cells in the prostate change and grow out of control.
These changes affect how cells grow, divide, and repair themselves.
In some cases, these changes are passed down through families.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
Anyone with a prostate can develop prostate cancer. But some factors may increase your risk.
Risk factors may include:
- Family history: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer may increase your risk.
- Genetic changes: Certain inherited genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, may raise risk.
- Lynch syndrome: This inherited condition is linked to a higher risk of several cancers.
- Age: Risk increases after age 50. Most cases occur after age 65.
- Race and ethnicity: Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and may be diagnosed earlier.
- Chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those used in firefighting, may increase risk.
Diet and Nutrition Tips to Help Prevent Prostate Cancer
A healthy diet may help lower your risk of prostate cancer.
You can support your health by:
- Avoid charred meats: Burnt meat may contain harmful chemicals.
- Eat fruits and vegetables: These foods provide nutrients that support overall health.
- Choose lower-fat foods: High-fat diets have been linked to higher risk in some studies.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity has been linked to several types of cancer, including prostate cancer.
Healthy Habits That May Help Prevent Prostate Cancer
Daily habits can also play a role in your overall health.
Helpful habits may include:
- Stay active: Regular exercise supports your overall health and may lower cancer risk.
- Quit smoking: Smoking is linked to worse outcomes in many cancers.
- Limit alcohol: Heavy alcohol use may increase health risks.
How to Prevent Prostate Cancer: Get Screened Today
While there’s no single way to prevent prostate cancer, small, consistent choices can make a difference over time. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping up with regular checkups may all help reduce your risk.
Routine screenings can help find prostate cancer early, when treatment is often easier. Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to talk with a provider about your risk and when to start screening.
If you have questions about how to prevent prostate cancer or when to start screening, don’t wait to get answers. Schedule a prostate screening in Eugene–Springfield, OR to understand your risk and take positive steps for your health.