Myth 1: Is lack of sex causing prostate cancer?
- Whilst there is one study showing an association of men with increased frequency of ejaculation with lower risk of prostate cancer, a direct cause-effect relationship has not been proven.
- The study also did not differentiate between sex and masturbation, and there may be other confounding factors eg lifestyle.
- Additionally, other studies have shown conflicting results.
Myth 2: Does eating tomatoes prevent prostate cancer?
- Tomatoes contain lycopene, which is believed to be beneficial for prostate health, but it’s not a definitive prevention method for prostate cancer.
Myth 3: Do men have high sexual desire when they reach 40 years old due to increased testosterone?
- Testosterone levels tend to gradually decrease with age, so a sudden increase in sexual desire at 40 isn’t typically due to heightened testosterone.
Myth 4: Does having a vasectomy increase the risk of prostate cancer?
- Studies have shown no clear association between vasectomy and an elevated risk of prostate cancer.
Myth 5: Does high testosterone cause prostate cancer?
- There’s no conclusive evidence linking high testosterone levels to an increased risk of prostate cancer.
Myth 6: Can drinking excessive amounts of milk lead to prostate cancer?
- While some studies suggest a potential link, current evidence isn’t strong enough to establish a definitive connection.
Myth 7: Is prostate cancer only a concern for older men?
- While age is a significant risk factor, younger men can also develop prostate cancer.
Myth 8: Will herbal supplements prevent prostate cancer?
- Despite some claims, there’s no herbal supplement that has been proven to prevent prostate cancer.
Myth 9: Can sitting on a bicycle for extended periods cause prostate cancer?
- While prolonged pressure on the perineum can lead to discomfort, there’s no conclusive evidence linking it directly to prostate cancer.
Myth 10: Is prostate cancer always fatal?
- When detected early, prostate cancer often has a high survival rate.
Myth 11: Does a healthy diet alone guarantee protection against prostate cancer?
- While a healthy diet is beneficial for overall well-being, it’s not a guaranteed shield against prostate cancer.
Myth 12: Can stress directly cause prostate cancer?
- While chronic stress can impact overall health, it hasn’t been established as a direct cause of prostate cancer.
Myth 13: Does having a family history of prostate cancer mean I will definitely get it?
- While having a family history increases the risk, it doesn’t guarantee that an individual will develop prostate cancer.
Myth 14: Does prostate cancer always cause symptoms?
- Early-stage prostate cancer often presents with no symptoms, which is why regular screenings are essential.
Myth 15: Can prostate cancer only be treated with surgery?
- Treatment options for prostate cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and active surveillance, among others.
Myth 16: Can prostate massage reduce prostate cancer?
- Prostate massage, sometimes referred to as “prostate milking,” is a manual stimulation of the prostate gland. While it can provide certain health benefits, such as relieving symptoms of prostatitis or improving semen quality, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that prostate massage can prevent or reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
- Prostate massage should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider for specific medical conditions and not as a general method for preventing prostate cancer.
Myth 17: Is the PSA test perfect for diagnosing prostate cancer?
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a blood test that measures the level of a protein produced by the prostate gland. While elevated PSA levels can be an indication of various prostate conditions, including cancer, it is not a definitive diagnostic tool on its own. Further evaluation, such as a biopsy, is needed to confirm the presence of cancer.
- PSA screening should be done in conjunction with a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider about its benefits and potential risks.
Myth 18: Prostate cancer treatment always leads to erectile dysfunction?
- While some treatments can have side effects, not all men experience erectile dysfunction after prostate cancer treatment.
Myth 19: Is standing urination causing prostate cancer?
- There is no scientific evidence to suggest that standing while urinating increases the risk of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is primarily influenced by genetic factors, age, and lifestyle choices.
- Standing urination is a normal and common practice for many men and is not linked to the development of prostate cancer. It’s important to focus on established risk factors, such as family history, age, and overall health, when considering prostate cancer prevention.
Myth 20: Traditional remedies alone can cure prostate issues
- While traditional remedies have cultural significance and can be beneficial for general health, they should not be relied upon solely for prostate health issues. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Myth 21: Discussing prostate health is taboo
- In some cultural contexts, discussing intimate health matters like prostate health may be considered taboo. However, open and informed discussions about prostate health are crucial for early detection and effective management.
- Encouraging open dialogue about prostate health can help dispel myths and promote overall well-being.
Remember, it’s crucial to rely on accurate, evidence-based information when it comes to health-related matters. If you have concerns about prostate health, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and appropriate screening recommendations.
Rev 2.0 12-10-2023