Diet, Food & Fitness, Men’s Health

Ask Our Expert: 4 Tips for Prostate Health
After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men. Most men with the disease are 65 or older. African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease.

Dr. Brian Davis-Joseph, Chief of Urology at NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem, notes that although many men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, most of them do not go on to suffer from advanced disease, and even fewer men die from it.

The PSA (prostate specific antigen) test is a blood-based study used in the early detection of prostate cancer and in the assessment of prostate health. Men should talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of the PSA test and whether or not early detection is right for them.

Living a healthier lifestyle may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer and many other health conditions. Dr. Davis-Joseph offers the following tips for prostate health:

1. Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Aim for at least five servings of fruit and vegetables daily. Choose whole grains, like whole-grain bread and oatmeal. Swap red meat for more lean proteins, like skinless chicken, turkey, beans, and eggs.

2. Stay active. Regular exercise may not only reduce your risk for prostate cancer, but for many other serious health issues as well. Try to move for at least 30 minutes at least five days a week. You can build physical activity into your day – walk briskly to and from lunch, get off the subway a stop early, or take the stairs instead of the elevator.

3. If you smoke, take steps to quit. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. Click here to learn more about the comprehensive treatment available for New Yorkers looking to quit smoking.

4. Get regular check-ups. Your primary care doctor will make sure that you get all of the recommended screenings to stay on top of your health at any age. And if you are looking to lose weight or quit smoking, your doctor can also help you meet your health goals.

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