Saturday, 13 September 2025

 

Men Who Skip This Crucial Practice Face 45% Higher Risk of Prostate Cancer



Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, second only to lung cancer as a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. The good news? Early detection can save lives.

A recent study revealed that men who avoid regular prostate cancer screenings may face a 45% higher risk of dying from prostate cancer. Despite the simplicity of these tests, many men continue to neglect them due to fear, denial, or busy lifestyles.

Why Prostate Cancer Screening Is So Important

The prostate is a small gland that plays a crucial role in male reproductive health. When prostate cancer develops, it often grows silently in the early stages. Without proper screening, it may go unnoticed until it reaches an advanced and harder-to-treat stage.

Screenings can detect prostate cancer early, when treatment is most effective and survival rates are significantly higher. Regular check-ups can literally mean the difference between life and death.

Key Prostate Cancer Risk Factors

While some risk factors are beyond our control, many can be managed through lifestyle choices and regular check-ups.

Non-modifiable risk factors:

  • Age: Risk increases after age 50.
  • Ethnicity: More common in African American men.
  • Family history & genetics: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer raises your risk.

Modifiable risk factors:

  • Smoking
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Obesity
  • Poor diet (especially processed foods and unhealthy oils)

But the single most important preventive step is regular prostate cancer screening.

The Research Behind the 45% Higher Risk

The European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC) followed tens of thousands of men for over two decades. Findings show that regular screenings reduce prostate cancer deaths by up to 20%.

A related study from the Erasmus MC Cancer Institute in the Netherlands highlighted that men who consistently skipped screenings had a 45% higher chance of dying from prostate cancer compared to those who kept up with appointments.

 

Why Men Avoid Prostate Screenings

Many men skip screenings because of:

  • Fear or denial – not wanting to confront possible bad news.
  • Busy schedules – putting health checks at the bottom of the list.
  • Misconceptions about the procedure – believing it’s invasive or embarrassing.

The truth is, the old digital rectal exam is rarely used today. Instead, doctors rely on the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test. This is a simple blood test that can reveal potential prostate issues quick, painless, and life-saving.

Advances in Prostate Cancer Screening

Modern diagnostic tools have made prostate cancer detection faster, easier, and more accurate than ever before:

  • PSA blood test – the primary screening method.
  • MRI scans – provide clearer imaging of the prostate.
  • Biopsies – confirm diagnosis if needed.

With these advancements, there’s really no excuse to avoid screening.

How to Lower Your Prostate Cancer Risk

Along with regular check-ups, lifestyle plays a huge role in lowering your risk:

  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Limit processed foods and unhealthy cooking oils.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake.
  • Manage stress effectively.

The Bottom Line

Prostate cancer is common, but it doesn’t have to be deadly. Regular screening is the most powerful step men can take to lower their risk and increase survival chances. If caught early, prostate cancer is highly treatable.

Skipping screenings could cost you your life. A simple blood test once a year offers peace of mind and the opportunity for early treatment if needed. Don’t let fear or misconceptions hold you back your health is worth it.

 


FAQs About Prostate Cancer & Screening

1. At what age should men start prostate cancer screening?

Most men should start screening at age 50. However, men at higher risk (African American men or those with a family history) should consider starting at age 40–45.

2. What is the PSA test?

The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is a simple blood test that measures PSA levels. Elevated levels may indicate prostate issues, including cancer.

3. Is prostate screening painful or invasive?

No. Today, most screenings involve only the PSA blood test, which is quick and nearly painless.

4. Can lifestyle changes lower prostate cancer risk?

Yes. Eating a healthy diet, exercising, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can all reduce your risk.

5. How often should men get screened?

It depends on age and risk factors, but generally once every 1–2 years. Your doctor can recommend the best schedule for you.

Takeaway: Don’t wait. Schedule your prostate cancer screening today it’s the simplest step toward protecting your health and future.

 

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