Prostate Cancer

In its early stages, prostate cancer may not present any symptoms. As it progresses slowly, it may begin to show a few symptoms. Men above 70 diagnosed with prostate cancer and those with PSA level below 2.5 who show no sign of deterioration are often advised not to treat the cancer but engage in what is termed “active surveillance” or “watchful waiting.” Active surveillance includes diet, exercise and stress management, and those who opt for this are often perceived to have better quality of life than those who are treated. However, monitoring the PSA level regularly is important for those who choose watchful waiting. Age is a major risk factor for prostate cancer. Two-thirds of all prostate cancer cases occur in men above 65 years. Race is another factor. Prostate cancer occurs 60% more often in African – Americans than in Caucasians and Hispanic – Americans. And it occurs less frequently in people of Asian descent than in Hispanics and Caucasians. Diet is also a factor. High animal protein intake is associated with increased risk of breast, prostate, pancreatic, colon, kidney and endometrial cancers. Too much protein tends to produce large amounts of nitrogenous waste in the intestines, some of which get converted to the highly carcinogenic compounds, nitrosamines and ammonium salts. Therefore, men who consume diet low in vegetables and fruits but high in red meat and dairy products are at greater risk. Equally at risk are men who lead sedentary life. Men who have had a vasectomy could also have increased risk.