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Prostate Cancer Prevention

Because prostate cancer is a leading form of cancer among men in the U.S., prostate cancer prevention is very important to Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University. Our team is finding ways to prevent this common cancer.

Preventing Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States.

While experts are still working to uncover prostate cancer prevention strategies, it is largely treatable when caught early. Prostate cancer, like other cancers, is caused when cells grow at an uncontrolled rate. Over time, this leads to the development of masses, or tumors, in the prostate gland.

Prostate Cancer Risk Factors

Knowing your prostate cancer risk factors and getting screened regularly can help you be proactive in diagnosing or preventing prostate cancer. Early diagnosis improves overall survival rates and outcomes.

Prostate cancer risk factors include:

  • Age. Prostate cancer is most common in men over the age of 50. About 6 in 10 cases are found in men over 65 in the U.S.
  • Race/ethnicity. Black men have the highest incidence of prostate cancer in the U.S.
  • Family history of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer can be hereditary. Having a brother or father with prostate cancer more than doubles your risk of getting the disease as well.
  • Geography. Prostate cancer is more common in North America, northwestern Europe, Australia and the Caribbean islands. So far, more research is needed to understand why this is.

Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer usually shows very few signs and symptoms until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. When that occurs, the most common symptoms are:

  • Difficulty urinating
  • Blood in the urine or semen
  • Frequent urination (mostly at night)
  • Burning sensation when urinating
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Pain in the lower back, pelvis, stomach or hips
  • Weakness in the legs
  • Fatigue

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms, call your doctor.

Ways to Prevent Prostate Cancer

There is currently no way to completely prevent prostate cancer. Many of the most common prostate cancer risk factors — older age, ethnicity and family history — cannot be changed. But adopting certain lifestyle habits may help lower your risk.

These healthy habits include:

  • Not smoking. If you smoke, take the steps to quit.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight. There is some evidence to suggest that obesity may increase a person’s risk for prostate cancer. If you are overweight or obese, talk with your doctor about implementing a weight loss plan.
  • Eating a well-balanced diet. Studies have shown that high-fat diets may increase a person’s risk for prostate cancer. Choose a low-fat diet and limit processed and fatty foods, red meat and dairy. Eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  • Exercising regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week of moderate exercise.
  • Limiting alcohol. The American Cancer Society (ACS) strongly recommends that people do not drink. If you do drink alcohol, the ACS recommends no more than two drinks per day for men.