prevention of prostate cancer - #15336
I am really frustrated right now. My dad got diagnosed with prostate cancer last month, and now I'm freaking out about my own health. I mean, I know there’s a family history—his dad had it too—but I’ve always thought I was young and healthy enough to not worry about stuff like that. Lately, I’ve been reading up on the prevention of prostate cancer, trying to figure out if there’s anything I can do to lower my risks. Like, I've heard about diets and lifestyle changes that might help, but honestly, with everything going on, I’m not sure where to start. Last week, I did some blood tests, and while I didn’t get any alarming results, the fear is kinda creeping in. Is it too early for me to be thinking of prevention of prostate cancer? What should I focus on? Diet? Supplements? Exercise? And is it worth getting screened early? I’ve heard mixed things about that, and I’m just trying to sort out the right approach. Any advice on concrete steps I can take for the prevention of prostate cancer? I just wanna feel like I have some control over this whole situation. Thanks for any insights, really!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Hi om
To reduce the risk of prostate cancer, include more tomatoes (rich in lycopene), cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, and fatty fish in your diet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, while limiting red and processed meats. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular exercise for optimal prostate health.
But as major portion of ca prostate is also genetically transferred so you should keep a follow up on your prostatic markers periodically. For further guidance or if you have symptoms, please schedule a consultation. Dr. Nikhil Chauhan Consultant Urologist
Considering your family history, it’s natural to be concerned about prostate cancer prevention. While age is a significant risk factor—it’s more common in older men—focusing on prevention even earlier can be wise, given your family background. First, let’s talk diet. Some studies suggest that a diet low in red meat and high in fruits and vegetables might help; think about incorporating more of those veggies, along with plenty of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon or mackerel. Exercise is another crucial component; regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer, so aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise, like brisk walking or cycling, each week. As for supplements, the evidence is mixed. Some advocate for vitamin E or selenium, but current research doesn’t support their effectiveness in cancer prevention. It’s a good idea to discuss any supplements with your healthcare provider before starting.
Regarding screening, there are pros and cons to starting early. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is common, but false positives or negatives complicate the picture—leading to anxiety or unnecessary biopsies. Since your family history elevates your risk, have a conversation with your doctor about whether early screening makes sense for you based on your specific risk factors and age. Lifestyle choices such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking are also beneficial.
Use this time to educate yourself on the disease, but avoid letting stress take over. Remember, taking these steps doesn’t guarantee prevention, but it may lower your risk and empower you to feel some control in this situation. Always consider speaking with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your circumstances.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.