Prostate cancer is among the common types of cancer that occur in male individuals and has equally contributed to the deaths of many individuals. It is widely understood that genetic predisposition is a contributing factor to the development of prostate cancer, but the study showed that adopting a fit lifestyle reduces the risk.
Genetics and prostate cancer
Studies show that heredity plays a significant role in the development of the prostate cancer. Some inherited genes like BRCA2, BRCA1, and HOXB13 gene mutations are potential markers of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is more common in men with a history of family members having the same disease. Yet, a genetic relation is not sufficient to dictate that every person with a certain susceptibility gene will definitely get prostate cancer.
Lifestyle factors influencing prostate cancer risk
Most research also agrees that lifestyle factors do play a very big role when it comes to developing prostate cancer. Key lifestyle modifications can help mitigate genetic risk:
Dietary factors reveal that high consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grain food products has a long-term decreased impact on the development of prostate cancer. Tomatoes which contain lycopene and Selenium containing foods like the Brazil nut are protective agents.
Physical activity, again, at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity would reduce the risk for prostate cancer.
A number of factors have been linked to aggressive prostate cancer, including obesity, therefore a healthy weight can help in preventing aggressive prostate cancer.
Reducing smoking and avoiding alcohol also reduces prostate cancer risk.
Relaxation methods, including meditation and Yoga assist in enhancing general health of an individual.
How lifestyle compensates for genetic risk
People cannot change their genes, but the way they live does have a say over gene function. A healthy lifestyle:
Analyzes the proteins that control one or many of the pathways that lead to cancer.
Boosts the rate of immunocompetent cells thus improving their capability to recognize and destroy cancerous cells
Slows oxidation in the body and chronic inflammation, which is also responsible for encouraging the growth of cancer cells.
Enhance in hormone balance such as testosterone and IGF-1 associated with Prostate Cancer
Promotes the protection of telomere or the aging cell.
Epigenetics and Gene Expression
Epigenetic changes concern the modulation of chromatin structure and codes with out changing DNA matters. This is contributed to by lifestyle modifications which alter the characteristics of genes either for enhancement or inhibition. A healthy lifestyle:
Activates tumor-suppressor genes
Silences oncogenes (cancer-promoting genes)
Enhances DNA repair mechanisms
Real-World Implications
Numerous studies demonstrate the benefits of lifestyle modifications:
The Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial found that finasteride combined with lifestyle changes reduced prostate cancer risk.
The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study linked high fruit and vegetable consumption to lower prostate cancer risk.
Conclusion
The study finds that a healthy lifestyle can reduce the chances of prostate cancer even if the individual has a hereditary gene that puts him at higher risk. Men can lower their prostate cancer risk by following a healthy diet, engaging in plenty of exercises, managing stress and practicing other healthy practices. Thus it can be seen that though genetic influence cannot be completely negated, certain lifestyles go a long way in controlling genes affecting cancer. Leading a healthy life enhances personal control over one’s health, and is an effective supplement to the genes people are endowed with.
It is advisable to seek medical advice from professional healthcare practitioners for more information on how to reduce probabilities of acquiring the disease. Take preventive examinations, get standard screenings, and reveal genetic risks and changes in behavior. When tripled with the genetic understanding of the disease, men are encouraged to make the necessary lifestyle adjustments towards preventing prostate cancer and improved health.
Dr. Aravind Badiger Technical Director BDR Pharmaceuticals