“Empower Your Health: Dr. Dan Sperling’s Guide to Prostate Cancer Prevention Through Lifestyle Choices”

29 Dec Lifestyle Choices that Protect Against Prostate Cancer by Dr. Dan Sperling

Dr. Sperling

By Dr. Dan Sperling M.D., D.A.B.R.
Medical Director and Chief of Interventional Uroradiology at the
Sperling Prostate Center in Florida
Medical Director of its parent practice, the Sperling Medical Group

If Dr. Dean Ornish’s name sounds familiar, it’s likely due to his emergence over three decades ago as a leading advocate for preventing heart disease through nutrition and physical activity. His 1990 publication, “Dr. Dean Ornish’s Program for Reversing Heart Disease,” achieved best seller status on the NYTimes list. Even now, when we consider Dr. Ornish, a lengthy and heart-healthy existence comes to mind.

Although Dr. Ornish is not typically associated with prostate health, there are compelling reasons to make that connection—but many men remain unaware. In 2008, the National Academy of Sciences published a study  by Dr. Ornish and his associates, titled “Changes in prostate gene expression in men undergoing an intensive nutrition and lifestyle intervention.” This work paved the way for new insights into the prevention of prostate cancer (PCa).

Dr. Ornish along with his team demonstrated that a holistic lifestyle regimen they created resulted in alterations in gene regulation. They formulated an experimental lifestyle protocol and executed it on 30 PCa patients; all of whom had been diagnosed with low-risk PCa and were under Active Surveillance (no alternative treatment). Initially, each participant’s biopsy samples were utilized to assess his PCa gene activity. Subsequently, all involved diligently followed this outlined protocol:

• A vegan (plant-based) diet (with 10% of caloric intake from fat)
• Physical activity (walking for 30 minutes daily, six days a week)
• Stress reduction techniques (yoga, progressive relaxation, breathwork, meditation)
• Dietary supplements (vitamins C and E, soy, fish oil, selenium)
• A weekly support group to provide guidance and maintain program adherence.

Outcomes of the Study

Upon completion of the 3-month duration, the patients underwent further biopsies for genomic assessment. The research team uncovered that numerous disease-promoting factors, including not solely cancer activity but also cardiovascular disease and inflammation, exhibited down-regulation (“turned off”) while protective disease-preventing genes were up-regulated (“turned on”). In essence, healthy lifestyle selections can substantially alter our bodies, even at the molecular level within our cells.

As a physician who specializes in PCa detection, diagnosis, and minimally invasive image-guided interventions, I strive to eradicate prostate cancer—but more importantly, to prevent it outright. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could alleviate the global cancer load one individual at a time?

Dr. Ornish’s 2008 findings motivated me to stay informed on studies regarding how lifestyle choices related to nutrition, exercise, stress management, supplements, and strong emotional support can diminish the risk of PCa. Here are several examples:

• Research consistently indicates that the Mediterranean dietary pattern, which entails decreased consumption of red meat and processed foods while amplifying intake of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fruits, provides exceptional protection against PCa.
• Strenuous physical activity not only demonstrates a significant preventive advantage against PCa but can also prolong survival for those facing incurable PCa.
• Stress management approaches like yoga benefit PCa patients recovering from treatment and its associated side effects, and they hold value for recently diagnosed individuals as well. Recent studies further suggest that men with BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or other noncancerous pelvic concerns may find yoga beneficial for enhancing prostate health.
• A plethora of PCa patients, or those at risk for PCa, look towards supplements or alternative therapies. In terms of scientific evidence, the effectiveness of supplements remains inconclusive, as many studies fail to validate their benefits. Nonetheless, there is unanimous consensus that a nutritious, well-rounded diet fulfills all needs for the assorted vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining healthy bodies. My only caution is to investigate the manufacturers and avoid exaggerated claims (if it seems too good to be true, it likely is). Opt for products from trustworthy sources and consult your physician regarding your supplement usage.
• Emotional backing, psychological well-being, and mental health are often overlooked or disregarded throughout a PCa patient’s journey with the disease. Notably, anxiety can be harmful not merely during PCa but can adversely affect overall immunity and mental wellness. If you are battling PCa, it is crucial to surround yourself with supportive, compassionate family and friends. Such support affects your physical and mental resilience and healing both directly and indirectly.

Referring back to Dr. Ornish, he illustrated the connection between cardiovascular health and prostate health. At our Center, we echo the extensive amount of published research: what benefits the heart is beneficial for the prostate—and the reverse holds true as well. The lifestyle choices we make significantly influence our overall health, whether it involves a small gland situated deep in the pelvis or a robust muscular organ that circulates life-sustaining oxygen and nutrients across the entire body. The health of your prostate

lies in the many choices you make daily. If you wish to safeguard it from prostate cancer, prioritize wellness and make informed selections.

NOTE: This material is intended solely for informational reasons and does not replace professional diagnostic or medical counsel. Consult your physician if you have health concerns or inquiries of a personal medical nature.

About the author:

Dr. Dan Sperling, a specialist in MRI-based services for prostate cancer, is a certified and licensed radiologist. He is part of the Society of Uroradiology and the American Society of Laser Medicine. Dr. Sperling has undertaken multiple specialized residencies and fellowships. Since establishing his own practice in 2010, he has become a pioneer in image-based detection, diagnosis, and management of prostate ailments, including cancer.

Dr. Sperling currently serves as the Medical Director at the Sperling Prostate Center located in Delray Beach, FL

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Last Updated on December 29, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD

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