Prostate cancer is the most common form of all cancers among men within Australia, with the median age of diagnosis being 71.
According to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research:
“The Prostate is an organ forming part of the male reproductive system, located immediately below the bladder and just in front of the bowel. Its main function is to produce fluid which protects and enriches sperm. Prostate cancer occurs when some of the cells of the prostate reproduce far more rapidly than in a normal prostate, causing a swelling or tumour. Prostate cancer cells eventually break out of the prostate and invade distant parts of the body. Once the cancer escapes from the prostate, treatment is possible but cure becomes impossible”
(https://perkins.org.au/research/disease/cancer/prostate-cancer)
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer may include:
- Age (>50yr)
- Family history and genetics
- Poor diet
- Sedentary lifestyle
Treatments:
Depending on the stage of cancer, and the treatment recommendations, there are many options available:
- active surveillance (watchful waiting);
- surgery;
- radiation;
- high intensity focused ultrasound; and
- hormone therapy.
Exercise advice:
Exercise is essential for those with Prostate cancer. It is especially important for those having ADT (Androgen Deprivation Therapy).
Regular exercise can help to:
- Improve energy levels
- Improve mental health and cognitive function
- Improve bone density and muscle mass
- Improve longevity and wellness post treatment
- Improve immune responses
- Improve cholesterol and blood pressure.
It is important that each person is cleared to exercise by their Oncologist or GP before commencing, and meet with an exercise professional to create a specific plan of attack based on medical history.
All types of exercise are recommended for those with Prostate cancer, however a mix of aerobic and resistance training is especially important. Aim to complete regular exercise most if not all days, accumulating 150 minutes per week!
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