Extra Weight Increases Risk of Prostate Cancer Deaths
The American Cancer Society announced that overweight men (BMI of 25–29.9) and obese men (BMI of 30 or above) who are diagnosed with prostate cancer are almost two times more likely to die after receiving treatment (removal of prostate gland, radiation and hormone therapy) than those who are of average weight (BMI of 18.5–24.9) Obesity has long been known to increase the likelihood of developing cancer, but this is the first study that links weight to actual post-treatment survival.
Although obesity and prostate cancer disproportionately affect African American men, there is good news. You can reduce your risk by lowering your BMI with daily exercise, resistance training and healthier eating, along with getting screened for prostate cancer. Men 40 and up need to be screened with a digital rectal examination (DRE) every year. Those with a family history should also get an annual PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test. Other men can wait ‘til age 50 for the annual PSA test. Early detection is key!
