Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men today and many men are concerned about their risk of being diagnosed with it.
Recent studies have shown that there is a link between frequent ejaculation and a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer. The largest study looked at 30,000 men, where Harvard researchers measured ejaculation frequency at various times in a man’s life, with a primary focus on ages 20-29 and 40-49. Researchers followed up with the men every two years to see if there was a prostate cancer diagnosis. The results found that men who ejaculated more than 21 times a month, either through sex or masturbation, were two-thirds less likely to develop prostate cancer when compared to the men who ejaculated between 4 and 7 times a month. (1) Another study in 2016 followed up on the same men, tracking them for 10 more years. The results confirmed again that those who were more sexually active with more frequent ejaculations had a lower risk of prostate cancer development. (2)
Furthermore, an Australian study that looked at over 2,300 men reported that men with 4.6 to 7 ejaculations each week had a 36% less chance of being diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 70. (3)
Why Does Frequent Ejaculation Reduce the Risk of Prostate Cancer?
The reason why frequent ejaculation reduces the risk of prostate cancer is still being investigated in more detail. Some medical professionals believe that ejaculation could help successfully eliminate the prostate gland’s harmful carcinogens.
Prostate cancer develops inside the prostate gland, which plays a critical part in sexual health for males. It produces a thick, clear fluid that develops semen, and it also has muscles that help a man ejaculate. Prostate cancer happens when a malignant (cancerous) tumor arises from the gland. Prostate cancer is generally diagnosed in men over 50 years old, but it can happen earlier.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
It’s important to know that prostate cancer generally provides little to no warning signs until it’s already at a more advanced stage. Knowing the symptoms and understanding that getting regular checkups with your doctor is key to early diagnosis and more successful treatment options.
- Sudden and very frequent urination, especially at night.
- Men who have prostate cancer oftentimes have difficulty starting urination and it can also be very painful.
- Having blood in the urine or semen can also be a sign of prostate cancer.
- Pain or discomfort around the pelvis or in the back and hips can be a sign
- Having trouble getting an erection
- Painful erections
If there are any signs or symptoms that are happening regularly, it’s critical to talk to your doctor right away and have an exam.
If you or one of your loved ones are experiencing prostate cancer symptoms or have recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, learn more about our doctors and our unique treatment approaches. It’s free! Contact us today to schedule a free 30-minute consultation.
