As you know, prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men in Quebec. The causes of prostate cancer are not yet fully understood, but some studies have identified various factors and the behaviors to adopt to reduce them. Prostate cancer risks – Key points to remember.

1. Are vasectomy, red meat, animal fat, or obesity risk factors for prostate cancer?

Current knowledge about prostate cancer is still incomplete, especially about its risk factors. In addition to age, family history and racial origin (black men) which are established risk factors, poor diet (junk food) and other environmental factors may contribute. Vasectomy, masturbation, inflammation of the prostate and BPH do not increase the risk of prostate cancer, while being overweight may increase the risk of more advanced cancer at diagnosis.

2. Please review your family history

Having family members (such as a father or brother) with prostate cancer increases your risk of developing it too. In fact, your risk can be 2 to 6 times higher depending on how many members of your family have developed the disease. It is essential to consult and inform your doctor from the age of 40-45 of any family history of prostate cancer in order to be able to work together to set up a screening and prevention plan.

3. Can we prevent prostate cancer?

As of yet, nothing is proven or approved for preventing prostate cancer. However, it makes sense that your lifestyle, exercise habits, and diet have a big impact on your prostate health, just like your overall health. While good habits can help prevent or reduce the risk of prostate disease and its symptoms, most of all, it affects the longevity of your life and your quality of life.

4. I am worried because I have urinary symptoms. Is it the beginning of prostate cancer?

There are three main diseases of the prostate: BPH, prostatitis and prostate cancer. As the symptoms are similar for all three diseases, it is important not to jump to conclusions or to self-diagnose. Most of the time, prostate cancer is not involved, developing without noticeable symptoms. In most cases, urinary problems are more related to a prostate that grows larger with age. A doctor should be consulted for an accurate diagnosis.

5. Does a high PSA level always indicate prostate cancer?

No. It should never be forgotten that PSA is specific to prostate, not prostate cancer. It can increase in the absence of cancer for a variety of reasons: age, racial origin, benign enlargement or inflammation of the prostate, or a urinary tract infection. Most of the time, the levels return to normal when the problem is treated. Therefore, one should not draw hasty conclusions.

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Here is the first one – Symptoms, Risk and Screening

Take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease with our expert lectures, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you.

Do you have any questions or concerns? Above all, do not hesitate. Contact us at 1 855 899-2873 to discuss with a nurse specializing in uro-oncology. It’s simple and free, like all our services.

Pages of our site that might interest you
Want to know more? Just click on one of the links below.
Are you at risk?
Prostate-related diseases
Recognize the signs and symptoms

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Written by PROCURE. © All rights reserved – 2020