Lifestyle linked to prostate cancer risk

An US research have shown that maintaining a normal body mass index, engaging in regular physical activity and undergoing screening for prostate cancer can help stop disease progression. In a six-year study of 1,117 patients with localised prostate cancer, researchers from the University of Texas looked at prostate specific antigen levels, the aggressiveness of the cancer measured by a biopsy Gleason score and the size of the tumour.The researchers discovered that patients with a high risk of progression were significantly more likely to be obese. Moreover they exercise less than twice a week and do not undergo annual prostate screening.

On the contrary, those who have kept their weight down, exercise regularly and were screened regularly for signs of the disease had the lowest risk. It appears to be important that men maintain a low body mass index, exercise to the point of sweating at least two times a week, and are screened regularly for prostate cancer.

The researchers emphasise that their conclusions are preliminary and a follow-up study is needed to validate their findings. The study is one of the first to attempt to quantify the predictive risk that lifestyle factors have on whether or not prostate cancer will recur in patients who have been treated.