Men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, and still consume an unhealthy western diet after their diagnosis, are at an increased risk of dying, a study suggests.
Health and diet data from 926 men was studied, with all of the participants having been diagnosed with prostate cancer and taking part in an investigation named ‘the physicians’ health study’. There was a 67 per cent increased risk of death for those who followed a western diet, high in processed food and red meat, compared to a risk reduction of 36 per cent for those who followed a healthy diet, high in fruit, vegetables and fish.
The men were followed over an average period of 14 years, and placed into groups depending on the diet they followed.
“There is currently very little evidence to counsel men living with prostate cancer on how they can modify their lifestyle to improve survival,” said Dr Jorge Chavarro, of the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health. “Our results suggest that a heart-healthy diet may benefit these men by specifically reducing their chances of dying of prostate cancer.”
“These results are encouraging and add to the scant literature in this area,” said lead author Dr Meng Yang.
However, Dr Yang also highlighted the need for further tests, saying: “It is very important that our results are replicated in other studies with more diverse socio-economic and racial/ethnic backgrounds.” All of the participants in the study were white physicians.
The best way to follow a healthy lifestyle is by having a healthy diet, consuming fresh fruit and vegetables, whilst reducing your intake of processed food and sugar. Regular exercise is also very important in the fight against obesity.
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