It’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Although cancer can affect men and women differently, there are proactive steps that everyone can take to reduce risk. There may never be a guarantee, but we can do our best by learning how to prevent prostate cancer and ovarian cancer through risk analysis and lifestyle habits.
How to prevent ovarian cancer: Assessing risks
According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer deaths for women in the United States. The average U.S. woman has a lifetime risk of about 1 in 91 of developing the disease and 1 in 143 of dying from it. Certain risk factors can increase your chances of ovarian cancer. These include, but are not necessarily limited to:
- More than half of ovarian cancer occurs in women aged 63 or above, and it’s scarce in women under 40.
- Family history. Those with a family history of certain cancers, as well as specific inherited genetic mutations, are at higher risk.
- Personal health history. Women who have had breast cancer may be at higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Reproductive history. Those who have never carried a child to term or whose first pregnancy was after age 35 are more likely to develop this disease.
- Hormone replacement therapy. Estrogen use after menopause, whether alone or combined with progesterone, could increase risk.
- Those who are clinically obese may be at higher risk.
- Tobacco use has been shown to increase a variety of health risks, including the chances of developing cancer.
- Other risk factors. Although the links are unclear, there is some evidence that diet, exposure to male hormones, and talcum powder may increase risk.
How to prevent prostate cancer: Assessing risks
According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer in men in the United States, second only to skin cancer. It affects about 1 in 8 men at some point during their lifetime. Still, certain risk factors can make you more likely to develop this common disease. These include, but are not necessarily limited to:
- Prostate cancer is more commonly found in men over age 65, though the risk increases sharply after the age of 50. It is rare in men under 40.
- Prostate cancer is most common among African-American men and Caribbean men of African ancestry. Latino and Asian-American men typically have the lowest risk.
- Family history. Men with a family history of the disease, as well as with certain inherited genetic mutations, are at higher risk for developing prostate cancer.
- Other risk factors. Although the links are not entirely clear, other potential risk factors include smoking, obesity, diet, sexually transmitted infections, vasectomy, chemical exposure, and prostate inflammation.
Lowering risks for both types of cancer
As you can see, learning how to prevent prostate cancer and ovarian cancer has some risk factors outside your control. But it’s important to focus on what you can control since every step toward a healthier lifestyle can reduce your risks for all types of health conditions, including these and other cancers. Here are some easy ways to start lowering your risks today.
- See your doctor. Your physician can help you understand your personalized risk factors and develop a customized treatment plan. In addition, like most health concerns, both ovarian cancer and prostate cancer are relatively treatable in their earliest stages. That’s why early detection by a licensed medical professional is key.
- Make healthy dietary choices. Fruits and vegetables are vital for optimal health, including lowering your risk for many cancers. Aim to fill at least half your plate with a colorful assortment of these foods, and remember that healthy doesn’t have to mean boring. Herbs and seasonings can vastly improve flavor while maintaining nutrition. Be sure to eat a balance of proteins, carbs, and healthy fats. All offer essential nutritional benefits.
- Get plenty of sleep. Adults need seven to nine hours of high-quality sleep per night. Not only will it help you feel your best, but it also gives your body and mind the opportunity to repair microtrauma that occur throughout the day. Develop a strong sleep hygiene routine to wind down at night and promote restful sleep.
- Start moving. Adults of all ages and health statuses need at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days per week. But that doesn’t mean you have to become a gym rat. Walking, dancing, playing with your kids or your dog, gardening — anything that increases your heart and respiratory rates can help lower your risk of all health conditions, including cancer. You can even exercise in microbursts throughout the day rather than all at once. Park your car a little farther from the store. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Play a couple of rounds of fetch with your dog while dinner is cooking. Before you know it, you’ll be feeling better and protecting your health with very little perceived effort!