Prostate Awareness Month – Healthy Kappas

By August 1, 2018News

In 2003 a Presidential Proclamation was issued by President George W. Bush for National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Continuing with the month of August for awareness like with our “Grey for Jada” Brain Cancer campaign, the Richardson-Plano (TX) Alumni Chapter (RPA) recognizes September as Prostate Awareness Month.

Defined – Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an aging-related enlargement of the prostate gland. Over 80% of men develop benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) at some point in their lives, with over 50% by the age of 50. A light blue ribbon is a symbol for prostate cancer for National Prostate Health Month (NPHM).  If left untreated, BPH can lead to incontinence, stones, bladder damage or infections to kidneys, and ultimately to Prostate Cancer.

Prostate Cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among men and is the second-leading cause of death from cancer in men. At its peak, the death rate for Prostate Cancer was 27 in 100,000.  It is not unusual for men to live with Prostate Cancer for 10 to 20 years undiagnosed as opposed to taking preventative actions.  Surprisingly, Prostate Cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer

Earlier detection an annual screening starting as early as 45 years of age is crucial to prevention.

Below are some helpful tips for Men’s Prostate Health:

  1. Ask your doctor about Prostate Health.
  2. A healthy diet is beneficial in the prevention of prostate cancer. Add good fats (Fatty Acids).  Eat foods with fiber, such as high-fiber cereals and grains, fruits, and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fish, and less saturated fats.  Fiber helps to decrease pressure on the prostate from the lower bowel area.
  3. Reduce spicy and acidic foods. Use less refined sugar, fewer fried foods, high-fat salad dressings and sauces, and red meats Begin with a good multivitamin made especially for men and take it every day.
  4. Multivitamins made especially for men should be taken daily. Vitamins such as Omega 3 and Zinc, as well as Wheat Germ, can improve prostate health.  Saw Palmetto with stinging nettle extract, Green Tea extract, Lycopene and Selenium create a powerful combination of nutrients for prostate health.

At our Chapter meeting on September 13th, RPA will have a Prostate Cancer survivor discuss his battle, join us and learn more about continuing to be a Healthy Kappa.