Prostate Cancer ~ A Men’s Health Blog
Men’s Health Week 2023
Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most common types of cancer among men, affecting about 1 in 8 men in their lifetime. In Australia about 18,000 men are newly diagnosed with PC each year (1). Located just below the bladder, the prostate gland is a small organ that produces fluid that nourishes and transports seminal fluid. PC occurs when the cells in the prostate gland grow abnormally and form a tumour.
Prostate cancer can cause various symptoms within the body, such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, pain in the lower back or pelvis, or bone pain just to name a few. However, some men do not present with any symptoms at all, especially in the early stages of the disease.
There are many risk factors that can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, such as age, family history, ethnicity, diet, lifestyle, and environmental exposure. Some of these are unfortunately beyond our control, but others can be modified. For example:
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in fat and high in fruits and vegetables.
- Smoking
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercise
Exercise is especially beneficial for men with PC, as it can help them cope with the physical and emotional effects of the disease. Exercise can improve blood circulation, muscular strength, bone density, immune function, mood enhancement, energy levels, and quality of life. Exercise can also lower the levels of hormones that stimulate prostate cancer growth, such as testosterone and insulin.
Now, there is no one-size-fits-all exercise program for PC. The type, intensity, frequency, and duration are dependent on various factors, such as the stage of the disease, the type of treatment received, the presence of comorbidities (other underlying medical conditions), and the personal preference and goals of the individual.
- Regular check-ups and screenings to detect prostate cancer early. Early detection = greater chances of successful treatment.
- Consult with your doctor and a certified exercise specialist (Exercise Physiologist) who can assess fitness levels and design an exercise plan to suit you.
- Listen to your body. Shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain can occur during or post-exercise.
- Aim for at-least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week (30mins/day). Walking, cycling, swimming, or jogging are just come recommendations to achieve this. Pick something you really enjoy.
- Engage in supervised resistance exercises for strength building 2-3 times per week. Free weights, machines, or resistance bands are all acceptable.
For more information on PC, things to know, support groups, and understanding the process if diagnosed Visit the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia website (link below). For a tailored exercise plan, book in with our Exercise Physiologist Nathan.
https://www.pcfa.org.au/awareness/general-information/general-information-resources/#
Reference:
