Frequent Ejaculation And Prostate Cancer: What's The Link?

It is no surprise that prostate cancer is one of the most common and most debilitating malignancies that greatly compromises the quality of physical, sexual and psychological health in men. According to latest estimates, about 1 in 7 men are at risk of developing the prostate malignancy at some point of their life.

The walnut shaped, prostate gland plays a major role in the secretion of semen (or male ejaculate) as well as a variety of other vital functions. The goal of this article is to analyze if ejaculation impacts the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Does Frequent Ejaculation impact the Prostate Health?

You may have heard that frequent ejaculation reduces the risk of developing prostate cancer. In fact, it would not be wrong to say that this claim has been supported by a variety of scientific researches. For example, according to a new study reported in the European Eurology, investigators provided statistical evidence that men who ejaculates more are at lower risk of developing the malignancy of prostate gland.

According to another study that was conducted in 2004, investigators analyzed that men who ejaculate 21 times or

more per month are at lower risk of developing prostate cancer when compared to men who ejaculates less than 4-7 times per month.

There are a number of other studies that supports this; for example, according to an Australian study, frequent ejaculation (due to masturbation or sexual activity) at a young age reduces your risk of developing prostate cancer. But it is hard to suggest a conclusive link as there are some researches that suggests otherwise.

It is safe to say that there is a strong need of an ongoing research as well as data analysis to assess the relationship between frequent ejaculation and risk of prostate cancer so adequate policies can be established.

What Else Can You Do To Reduce The Morbidity And Mortality Associated With Prostate Cancer?

Healthcare providers recommend periodic screening in men who are at risk of developing prostate cancer due to presence of certain risk factors such as positive personal or family history etc. Other risk factors include:

• Consumption of high fat diet
• Chronic exposure to Agent Orange – a chemical that was used during Vietnam war
• Consumption of diet low in fresh fruits and vegetables
• Elderly male as most cases are reported in men over 65 years of age

This includes blood tests (such as PSA levels) or digital rectal examinations. Early detection and prompt management greatly improves the outcome.

References:

• Rider, J. R., Wilson, K. M., Sinnott, J. A., Kelly, R. S., Mucci, L. A., & Giovannucci, E. L. (2016). Ejaculation frequency and risk of prostate cancer: updated results with an additional decade of follow-up. European urology, 70(6), 974-982.
• Leitzmann, M. F., Platz, E. A., Stampfer, M. J., Willett, W. C., & Giovannucci, E. (2004). Ejaculation frequency and subsequent risk of prostate cancer. Jama, 291(13), 1578-1586.