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Prostate Health: What Every Man Should Know

The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland that plays a big role in male health, especially as men age. It helps produce semen and supports reproductive function. But when something goes wrong with the prostate, it can cause a wide range of symptoms—from frequent urination to serious conditions like prostate cancer.

Understanding the Prostate

  • Location: Just below the bladder and in front of the rectum
  • Function: Produces fluid for semen; helps push semen through the urethra during ejaculation

Common Prostate Conditions

  1. Prostatitis – Inflammation or infection of the prostate. Can cause pain, urinary problems, and sometimes fever.
  2. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, leading to urinary symptoms.
  3. Prostate Cancer – One of the most common cancers in men. Often grows slowly and may be treatable when caught early.



PSA Testing and What It Means

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a protein made by the prostate. A blood test measures its level.

  • Normal Range: 0 to 4 ng/mL (but this can vary by age)
  • % Free PSA: A lower percentage of free PSA may suggest a higher risk of prostate cancer.

What Can Raise PSA Levels?

  • Infections or prostatitis
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Recent ejaculation
  • Vigorous exercise (especially biking)
  • Prostate cancer

When to Test PSA

  • Age 50+ (or 40+ with family history or high risk)
  • If experiencing symptoms like frequent urination, weak flow, or pelvic pain



Medications and Hormones

  • Finasteride/Dutasteride – Medications that shrink the prostate by lowering DHT. Helpful in BPH, but may reduce libido or mood in some.
  • Cialis (Tadalafil) – Originally for ED, but also improves urinary symptoms in BPH by relaxing muscles in the bladder and prostate.
  • Testosterone Therapy – Often wrongly blamed for prostate cancer. Newer studies show it may be safe and even protective when monitored.
  • Estrogen – Plays a supportive role. Balanced estrogen helps reduce inflammation and maintain prostate health.



Supplements for Prostate Health

  • Saw Palmetto – May reduce symptoms of BPH
  • Zinc – Supports hormone balance
  • Vitamin D – Lowers inflammation and may reduce cancer risk
  • Lycopene (from tomatoes) – Antioxidant that supports prostate tissue



Diet and Lifestyle

  • Eat more:
  • Tomatoes, berries, leafy greens
  • Omega-3s (fish, walnuts, flaxseed)
  • Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage)
  • Avoid:
  • Excess dairy and red meat
  • Highly processed foods
  • Stay active, manage stress, avoid smoking



Prostatitis: Why It's So Stubborn

  • Can be bacterial or non-bacterial
  • Symptoms include pelvic pain, burning urination, and frequent urge
  • Requires long courses of antibiotics (2–6 weeks or more)



Prostate Cancer: Prevention and Detection

  • Saturation Model: Shows that once testosterone reaches normal levels, more T doesn’t fuel cancer—meaning testosterone therapy is not a cause of prostate cancer.
  • Early detection is key—especially if you have a family history
  • Treatments range from watchful waiting to surgery or radiation

Fun Facts

  • The prostate continues to grow with age, even in healthy men
  • Stress and low vitamin D are linked to prostate inflammation
  • Prostate massage is a real therapy used in chronic prostatitis



Final Thoughts

Prostate health is vital, especially for men over 40. Regular checkups, a clean diet, hormone balance, and awareness of symptoms can go a long way. Talk to a knowledgeable provider about how to keep your prostate in top shape—for better urinary, sexual, and overall health.

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