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The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known, so it is not
possible to prevent most cases of the disease. But based on what we do
know, some cases might be prevented.
Diet
While the results of research studies are not yet clear, you
may be able to reduce your risk of prostate cancer by changing the way
you eat. The ACS suggests eating less red meat and fat and eating more
vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Eat 5 or more servings of fruits
and vegetables each day. These guidelines give you a healthy way to eat
that may help lower your risk for some types of cancer, as well as
other diseases.
Tomatoes, pink grapefruit, and watermelon are rich in
substances called lycopenes.
Lycopenes help prevent damage to DNA and may help lower prostate cancer
risk. Research on this is still going on.
Some studies suggest that taking vitamin E daily may lower the
risk of prostate cancer. But others have found that vitamin E has no
impact on cancer risk and might raise the risk for some kinds of heart
disease. Selenium, a mineral, may also lower risk. A large study was
done to see if vitamin E or selenium lowered prostate cancer risk.
After about 5 years of use, the results showed that neither one was
found to lower prostate cancer risk.
On the other hand, vitamin A (beta-carotene) supplements may
actually increase prostate cancer risk. Before starting any vitamins or
other supplements, you should talk with your doctor.
Medicine
A study of the drug finasteride (Proscar®)
found that men taking the drug were less likely to get prostate cancer
than men taking a placebo ("sugar pill"). The drug can cause side
effects such as lower sex drive and trouble getting an erection. On the
other hand, it seems to help with urinary problems. At this time it's
not clear whether taking finasteride to lower the risk of prostate
cancer is a good idea or not. The results of the study will become
clearer over the next few years. Other drugs that may help prevent
prostate cancer are now being tested in clinical trials, too.
Last Medical Review: 08/21/2009
Last Revised: 08/21/2009
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