According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, but a few simple lifestyle changes can significantly lessen your risks; eating right and exercising can also mitigate your symptoms if you’re diagnosed with cancer. Many of us find it challenging to stay active as we get older, but it’s absolutely critical to our health and longevity, and easier than you think!
The Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation makes it easy to find a free community screening in your area, and we offer a patient decision aid to help you determine when to begin regular screenings. Our screenings are free to the public, completely confidential, and only take a few minutes. Most screenings involve a simple Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, and the APCF Patient Navigator will make contact with patients to explain test results, answer questions, and advise a urological consult if more investigation or a biopsy is warranted. There are also several things you can do on your own to lower your cancer risks:
Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet—Most physicians recommend eating less red meat and striving for a Mediterranean diet rich in healthy fats. Salmon and avocados are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients, and cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower, can help inhibit cancer development. Tomatoes, dark berries, green tea, and red wine are all great ways to get plenty of antioxidants, but be sure to consume wine and other alcoholic beverages in moderation.
Aim for 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days per week—You should get a good mix of exercise, including walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga, and get in the habit of parking your car in the back of the parking lot and taking the stairs. Be sure to also check with your doctor before beginning intensive weight training or other strenuous exercise after a prolonged period of inactivity.
Quit smoking—If you still smoke, quitting now is one of the best things you can do to improve both the length and quality of your life. It’s also a great way to free up some extra cash each month, and your family and friends will undoubtedly appreciate your decision to quit!
To learn more about prostate health or cancer screenings in Little Rock, contact us online or at 501-379-8027
