Does Masturbation Cause Prostate Cancer?

The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland that produces semen fluid and aids in its expulsion during ejaculation.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States, excluding skin cancer. One in every eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lives.

Because prostate cancer is so common, it is critical to be aware of and comprehend the risk factors. This article investigates whether there is a link between masturbation and prostate cancer and whether frequent ejaculation reduces the risk of prostate cancer. It also discusses some other risk factors and how to lower your chances of developing prostate cancer.

Does Masturbation Cause Prostate Cancer: Is there a link?

A number of articles have claimed that ejaculating more frequently can reduce the risk of prostate cancer over the last nearly 20 years. Some scientific evidence supports these claims, though the findings can be contradictory.

Over an eight-year period, a 2004 study polled over 29,000 men about their ejaculation frequency. It discovered that men who ejaculate more frequently (21 times or more per month) might be less likely to develop prostate cancer than men who ejaculate four to seven times per month.

A 2016 study extended the original 2004 study's follow-up by ten years. The findings confirmed that men who ejaculate more frequently might be less likely to develop prostate cancer than men who ejaculate less frequently.

However, it is safe to say that, while masturbation may or may not reduce prostate cancer, it does not cause prostate cancer.

So What Does the Research Says?

Steps to reduce cancer risk frequently include a slew of things you should avoid. So it may come as a relief to learn that doing something that many men enjoy may help reduce your risk of prostate cancer.

Researchers aren't sure why frequent ejaculation might offer protection against prostate cancer. According to one theory, ejaculation cleanses the prostate gland of cancer-causing substances, infections, and matter that can cause inflammation.

Despite compelling evidence in favour of frequent ejaculation, the theory remains divisive. There are also contradictory findings. The age at which ejaculation occurs is the source of the most debate in these studies.

According to a 2008 study, men who were sexually active in their twenties and thirties were more likely to develop prostate cancer. The study also discovered no conclusive evidence that masturbation is more dangerous than intercourse.

The Harvard study contradicted the age-related findings of the 2008 study. It discovered no link between the age of ejaculation and an increased risk of prostate cancer, but it did show that the benefits increase as a man ages. The Australian study found that frequent ejaculation during adolescence reduced the risk of prostate cancer.

Ejaculation also appears to have no protective effect against advanced or aggressive prostate cancer.

Still, more research is required better to understand the connection between prostate cancer and ejaculation.

How Much is Your Risk Reduced?

An 18-year Harvard study of nearly 30,000 health professionals discovered that men who ejaculated 21 times per month had a 20% lower risk of prostate cancer than men who ejaculated four to seven times per month.

A similar Australian study discovered that men who ejaculated seven times per week reduced their risk by 36%.

Are You at Risk for Prostate Cancer?

The second most common type of cancer in men is prostate cancer. The most common type of cancer is skin cancer. One in every seven men in the United States will develop prostate cancer at some point in their lives.

The following factors influence your chances of developing prostate cancer:

age: Men over the age of 50 are more likely to develop prostate cancer.
genetics: If a close relative has had prostate cancer, your risk increases.
weight: Obesity may increase your chances of developing advanced prostate cancer.
activity level: In some men, physical inactivity has been shown to increase risk.
diet: A diet high in animal and dairy fat and low in fibre, fruits, and vegetables may increase your risk of heart disease.
height: Tall men may be at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer causes are unknown. However, there is evidence that a healthy diet and lifestyle can offer some protection. You can take the following steps:

Limit your consumption of red meat, animal fats, and dairy fats.
Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables.
In men with prostate cancer, taking aspirin on a regular basis may help to slow the progression of the disease.

Takeaway

Research shows that frequent ejaculation may be associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to confirm this.

All men should discuss their risk factors with their doctor and follow any screening guidelines that the doctor recommends.