September is recognized as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. The likelihood of getting prostate cancer increases quickly with age when a man reaches 50. It continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Canadian men. Dr. Gautam Sudan, a medical oncologist at Humber River Health, has shared his toolkit to maintain a healthy prostate and to avoid and better detect early signs of cancer.

Get Screened.
Remember to be screened regularly. Prostate cancer screening recommendations are different depending on whether you are in a high-risk or an average-risk group. Men with a higher risk of developing prostate cancer include African-Americans, People of Scandinavian descent, and anyone with two or more family members who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer. If you are in a high-risk group, you should consider screening for prostate cancer beginning at age 40. Men who are at normal risk are encouraged to begin screenings starting at age 55. Screenings can include a digital rectal exam and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Speak with your family physician to be tested today.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle.
Men who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing advanced prostate cancer. Maintain a balanced diet, stay active, and exercise. Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Choose whole grains for bread, pasta, and cereals. Limit red meat to twice a week and focus on eating healthier protein such as fish, poultry, eggs, and beans. Decrease salt intake and increase your consumption of healthy fats with olive oil, nuts, and avocados. Avoid hydrogenated fats found in packaged foods and fast foods.

Quit Smoking and Decrease Alcohol Intake.
Multiple studies have shown that reducing alcohol and quitting smoking have led to a decreased risk of cancer.

Stress less, be proactive, and see your physician today to make sure you and your prostate are healthy!