Urine Trouble! or Need a Wee Bit of Help? Information on Prostate Cancer & Exercise Benefits
Did you know that 1 in 7 men in Australia will be diagnosed with Prostate Cancer?
If you need a wee bit of help understanding what prostate cancer is, and how exercise can assist, read below to find out more!
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate gland grow in an uncontrolled way, forming a malignant tumour. The prostate is a gland only found in males and helps make some of the fluid that is part of semen. The prostate is below the bladder (a hollow organ where urine is stored) and in front of the rectum (the last part of the intestines). Just behind the prostate are glands that make most of the fluid for semen called the seminal vesicles. The urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body through the penis, goes through the centre of the prostate. The size of the prostate can change as a man ages. It is about the size of a walnut in younger men, but can be much larger in older men.
Prostate Cancer Risk Factors
The most common modifiable risk factors associated with prostate cancer development include insufficient physical activity and diets high in processed fats, sugars and alcohol. Non-modifiable risk factors include age and a family history of a prostate cancer diagnosis. Additionally, there is a loose association with high testosterone levels. Ways in which you can reduce your risk include:
Regular physical activity, including a combination of both resistance and cardiovascular training (approximately 150-300 minutes per week of moderate intensity activity, or 75-150 minutes in the case of an active cancer diagnosis)
Making healthy eating choices (e.g. stick to 2 serves of fruit and 5 serves of veggies)
Reduce alcohol consumption
Reducing sedentary time as much as possible during the day
Background on Prostate Cancer in Australia
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australian men, affecting up to 1 in 7 men by the age of 75. Early detection and treatment of prostate cancer can help to ensure the best possible health outcomes. However, because there are no symptoms associated with early-stage prostate cancer, making sure you are up to date with regular prostate checks, including physical examinations (digital rectal examinations) and the prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test, can assist in early detection and prevention. In the case of late-stage prostate cancer, symptoms can include:
Pain while urinating
Frequent urination
Blood in urine or semen
Weak stream
Pain in back or pelvis
Weakness in legs or feet
Benefits of Exercise for Prostate Cancer
Physical activity and exercise are crucial in prostate health to assist in prevention, active cancer treatment and reoccurrence. For those with prostate cancer, exercise is safe and effective. Evidence shows that prostate cancer patients with higher energy expenditure have a lower death rate. Furthermore, exercise can help manage the side effects from Androgen Deprivation Therapy (a common treatment method for prostate cancer). Another research paper found an 86% decreased risk of aggressive cancer development through walking between 1-3 hours each week. Alongside this, research has demonstrated that three or more hours of vigorous exercise per week can lower the risk of prostate cancer death by 61%.
The benefits of regular exercise during and after cancer treatment include:
Reduced anxiety and fatigue
Improved self esteem
Increased feelings of optimism
Improved heart health
Increased muscle strength and endurance.
Improved quality of life