Private MD News

Experts warn of association between prostate cancer and obesity

Category: Prostate

Men who receive a positive PSA test for prostate cancer may benefit from exercising to lose excess pounds as part of their treatment, as experts say that men who are heavier may have worse outcomes than males of a healthy weight.

A 2007 study published in the journal Cancer Bulletin found that overweight men, as determined by a body mass index between 25 and 29, who developed prostate cancer were 25 percent more likely to die from the disease. Obese men, who had a BMI over 30, were 46 percent more likely to die.

"The growing prevalence of obesity in Western countries is alarming, and reducing the risk of prostate cancer death is only one among many health reasons to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise," said Margaret Wright, who led the study.

Since the time of that study, obesity has come to be recognized as a major risk factor for the development of prostate cancer and poorer outcomes. The National Institutes of Health list obesity and high-fat diets as two of the leading causes of the disease. The group recommends that men who are concerned about their prostate risk eat a lower-fat diet that is rich in healthy omega-3s.