Exercise May Lower Prostate Cancer Risk

Posted by Rheta Mankin on November 30th, 2015

Men looking for a way to reduce their prostate cancer risk or help themselves avoid complications should the disease present may want to simply get off the couch. Research is showing that physical activity can help lower a man’s chances for developing the disease while also helping slow its progression should it present.

A number of studies have pointed to a link between physical activity and a decreased prostate cancer risk. Studies have also shown that physical activity may delay tumor formation and help suppress metastasis if the disease is already present. The latter findings are very good news for men who have received positive diagnoses of cancer, but who are taking an active surveillance approach to treatment.

Men who wish to lower their prostate cancer risks may find a number of other steps also useful.

Exercise, however, may provide a big boost not only for lowering cancer risks but for such things as:

• Promoting better overall health – Exercise is a critical component in any plan to get healthy and stay that way. Even moderate, regular exercise can make a big difference on the health front.
• Increasing endurance – As men age, endurance levels can drop. Routine exercise can help address this concern while also ensuring strong cardiovascular health.
• Lowering risks for other diseases – Exercise is a key component in helping prevent such conditions as diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
• Outlook – Exercise is a wonderful stress reducer that can help improve a person’s health and outlook.

Men who are interested in working exercise into their regular routines will find doing so can have many benefits. Before getting started, it’s important to discuss the topic with a healthcare provider. Existing conditions and other limitations may require a physician’s oversight as an exercise program is put together.

Prostate cancer strikes more than 220,000 American men each year. Exercise alone may not prevent it, but it can provide a boost in the right direction. To learn more about this disease and to assess personal risk, speak with a healthcare provider.

About Author

Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group, a division of Choice Cancer Care – is an independently owned and operated oncology practice that is completely focused on unique, comprehensive patient care.