Men's Health - Prostate Cancer Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 50+ years.
What are the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer?
The signs and symptoms of prostate cancer are similar to BPH, but also include haematuria (blood in urine), blood in the ejaculate, pain during ejaculation, and back pain (possible spinal metastases).
What are some risk factors for prostate cancer?
Risk factors for prostate cancer include dietary factors (processed meats, high refined sugar, low fiber, dairy), abdominal obesity, poor methylation, increased 5α-reductase activity, intestinal dysbiosis, nutrient deficiencies (e.g., Zn, Se, vitamin D), and impaired detoxification pathways.
How does diet influence prostate cancer risk?
A diet high in processed meats, refined sugar, low fiber, caffeine, and high saturated and trans fats increases prostate cancer risk by promoting hormonal dysregulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
How does abdominal obesity contribute to prostate cancer risk?
Abdominal obesity leads to increased insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and dysregulated sex hormones, all of which can increase the risk of prostate cancer.
How does poor methylation contribute to prostate cancer risk?
Poor methylation increases 4-OH-E (CYP1B1) activity, leading to oxidative DNA damage and an increased risk of prostate cancer. Nutrient deficiencies and impaired antioxidant status also play a role.
What is the role of intestinal dysbiosis in prostate cancer?
Intestinal dysbiosis can increase β-glucuronidase, leading to raised circulating oestrogens and cell proliferation, which increases the risk of prostate cancer. Chronic low-grade inflammation from an impaired intestinal barrier can also contribute.
How does increased 5α-reductase activity contribute to prostate cancer?
Increased 5α-reductase activity leads to higher levels of DHT, which has been linked to prostate cancer risk.
What are some common nutrient deficiencies associated with prostate cancer?
Deficiencies in nutrients like zinc, selenium, and vitamin D are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
What are SNPs, and how do they contribute to prostate cancer risk?
SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms), such as CYP3A4 polymorphism, can affect the oxidative deactivation of testosterone, influencing prostate cancer risk.
How does impaired detoxification affect prostate cancer risk?
Impaired detoxification or elimination pathways and a high toxic load, such as BPA or xenoestrogens, may increase prostate cancer risk.
What is the natural approach to managing prostate cancer?
The natural approach includes a CNM Naturopathic Diet (removing dairy), focusing on zinc and selenium-rich foods, and a Mediterranean diet. Supplements like quercetin, resveratrol, EGCG, and curcumin can increase prostate zinc absorption and support health.
What is the role of lycopene in prostate cancer management?
Lycopene, found in tomato purée (2 tbsp daily), induces apoptosis and blocks gap junction communication, preventing the invasion and metastasis of prostate cancer cells.
What nutrients or herbs support prostate cancer management?
Nutrients and herbs that support prostate cancer management include zinc (15-30 mg/day), selenium (200-600 mcg), vitamin D (optimize levels), reishi (3-9 g/day), shiitake (1.5-10 g/day), and white button mushrooms.
How does zinc help in prostate cancer management?
Zinc stabilizes DNA and RNA, inhibits prostate cancer cell line growth, invasion, and inhibits NF-κB, which reduces DHT levels.
What is the role of selenium in prostate cancer?
Selenium increases glutathione peroxidase, and low levels are linked to carcinogenesis and prostate cancer. It has an anti-carcinogenic effect.
How does vitamin D affect prostate cancer?
Vitamin D has antiproliferative activity, can induce apoptosis, inhibit tumor cell invasiveness, and suppress tumor-induced angiogenesis.
How does reishi help with prostate cancer?
Reishi’s triterpenes suppress migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells, induce apoptosis, and inhibit matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression.
What is the role of shiitake mushrooms in prostate cancer?
Shiitake mushrooms, particularly their beta-glucan lentinan, have anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic properties that help in prostate cancer management.
How can white button mushrooms help with prostate cancer?
White button mushrooms inhibit androgen receptor activity, which can help reduce prostate cancer risk.
