After lung cancer, prostate cancer is the biggest cancer killer of American men, whether or not a disability is present.

But recent medical findings show that men need not simply wait for this killer to strike.  You may be able to lower prostate cancer risk with wise diet choices and healthy eating (further supported by exercise and weight control). What are those wise diet choices?

Fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains:  These foods are so beneficial to us in general that it’s hard for scientists to isolate all the individual factors.  For one thing, they tend to be low in fat, so that’s a huge benefit.

For another, plant-based foods contain a rich mixture of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that meats and processed foods may not give us.  And some individual plants are especially good:  tomatoes, for example, contain lycopene, which may be protective; and broccoli, kale, cabbage, and similar vegetables may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Selenium:  There’s recent research that suggests that selenium can help lower prostate cancer risk.  Get it from fish, whole grains, and Brazil nuts. You can also get it from a vitamin pill, but don’t take more than 200 micrograms per day—too much selenium can be harmful.

Fatty fish:  Men who eat a lot of fatty fish such as salmon, albacore tuna, sardines, and herring may lower their risk of prostate cancer.  Here’s an interesting statistic: if you’re a native Inuit man in Greenland, your risk of prostate cancer is near zero.  Why?  Perhaps because your diet is almost all fish.

Others foods to consider:  Vitamins D and E, soy, and green tea are all under investigation for their possible roles in reducing prostate cancer risk, but the jury is out.  Still, it can’t hurt to enjoy some soy-based products, like tofu or soy milk, and a cup of green tea—these foods contain many health benefits.

And the very best choice you can make to lower your risk of becoming a prostate-cancer statistic?  Talk to your doctor about being screened for prostate cancer today.  Two simple tests—a PSA blood level test and a digital rectal exam—may save your life.

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For more information on maintaining a healthy prostate, see Boost Your Prostate Health.

Studies outline vaccines that help treat prostate cancer. See Low-Dose Vaccine Strategy Shows Promise for Prostate Cancer Patients for more information.