“After skin cancers, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American men.” – ZERO Prostate Cancer

1-in-8 men will get diagnosed with prostate cancer and the number increases within the Black community (about 1-in-6) and survival rates decrease among them as well. Rates and the negative impact on the diagnosis and symptoms of cancer will vary from races, to veteran status, and even sexuality and gender identity. One way to combat the chances of getting prostate cancer is prevention with lifestyle changes and screening. This will NOT prevent developing prostate cancer 100% as some things we cannot change about ourselves (such as race, age, and genetics), however some instances can help decrease those chances or provide an early diagnosis which can help treat the cancer.

Risk Factors & Mitigation

• Age: The average age range of a diagnosis of prostate cancer is 66. Doctors agree that you should start screening for prostate cancer as early as 40 (no later than 50) years old.
• Genetics: Those with a first-degree relative (father, brother or son) are 2-3 times more likely to also develop prostate cancer. Even if close family members have a history of breast cancer, especially the BRCA gene, those individuals would also be more likely to develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.
• Race & Ethnicity: These numbers vary, however there is a huge push for health equity, especially with ZERO where they are constantly addressing the disparities in prostate cancer outcomes.
• Occupational: Veterans, firefighters and anyone exposed to chemicals are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
• Diet: Saturated fats, processed meats, and dairy products may be associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins may help reduce the risk. Some specific nutrients, such as lycopene (found in tomatoes) and selenium, have been linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer.
• Physical Activity: Regular physical activity has also been associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces inflammation, and regulates hormone levels, all of which may contribute to a lower risk of prostate cancer. Men who walk one to three hours each week have an 86% lower risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
• Other lifestyle factors: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to increased risk of prostate cancer. Quitting smoking and reducing the amount of alcohol can help reduce overall cancer risk.

How To Talk To Your Doctor

Sometimes the hardest step in dealing with any medical issues is how to bring it up to your doctor. Fortunately, ZERO has sets of questions for you to ask your provider regarding first time discussions all the way to clinical trials you may want to try to help with your treatment. You can also visit their Help & Support section to find peer groups that can help support you in your journey through prostate cancer.

Does Prostate Milking Work?

There are some medical studies out there regarding the health benefits (or lack-there-of) in prostate milking, but there is not enough out there to truly determine if there is an actual benefit or not to prostate milking and prostate cancer prevention. However, similar to peeing after sex (if it works for it, then do it), if prostate milking has you feeling overall physically better, then keep doing it! There is a larger consensus from doctors that if you have or suspect you have prostate cancer, to not continue milking in case it may cause the cancer the metastasize (which means migrate to another part of the body). There are products that are specifically make for prostate milking, but you also don’t want to forget the lube!