Prostate cancer is a common condition in men and the most common type of cancer in men in the US. It’s estimated that a whopping 288,300 men will be diagnosed this year. A man has about a 1 in 8 chance of being diagnosed with prostate during his lifetime.1 But is there anything that can impact those chances?
Turns out, there just may be. And it’s very good news for sexually active men. While more research may be needed to confirm, scientists have found that men who ejaculate frequently, either from sex, or masturbation, enjoy a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer.
While the subject may raise eyebrows, it’s worth exploring the connection between ejaculations and prostate cancer to learn more.
The Role Of The Prostate
Before we dive into the research, let’s briefly understand the prostate’s role in the male reproductive system. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that produces fluid that nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation. Nestled just below the bladder and surrounding the urethra like a protective sheath, the prostate secretes a fluid that constitutes a significant part of semen. This prostatic fluid, rich in enzymes, proteins, and minerals, serves as a nourishing medium for sperm cells during ejaculation.
The prostate’s primary function is to contribute to the production of semen, which acts as a vehicle for transporting and protecting sperm as it embarks on its journey to fertilize an egg. As a man experiences sexual arousal, the prostate gland goes into action, producing its specialized fluid that mixes with sperm from the testicles and fluid from seminal vesicles. This collaborative effort results in the formation of semen, creating an optimal environment for sperm to travel through the reproductive tract.
Because of the prostate’s strategic location around the urethra, it can also impact urinary function. As the prostate enlarges with age, it can exert pressure on the urethra, potentially leading to symptoms like urinary urgency and difficulty in maintaining a steady stream. Many men develop prostate cancer, and while the cause of the condition is not known, it only makes sense that, given the role of the prostate, researchers would look to establish a link between ejaculation and prostate cancer.
What Does The Research Say?
Several studies have suggested a potential link between ejaculation and prostate health. One study used self-reported data from nearly 32,000 men over a period of time (18 years). The men were asked to report their average monthly ejaculation frequency at three different time points: ages 20-29, ages 40-49, and finally the year before the questionnaire was distributed. This study suggested that men who reported more frequent ejaculations throughout their lives had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer.2
A further follow-up study, done in 2016, confirmed these findings.3
The theory behind this association is intriguing. Regular ejaculation may assist in flushing out potentially harmful substances from the prostate gland, potentially reducing the risk of prostate-related issues.4
However, it’s crucial to approach these findings with a balanced perspective. While the study offers interesting insights, it’s important to note that correlation does not imply causation. Other factors, such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and overall health, may also play a role in prostate health. It could be that those who ejaculate more frequently are also healthier in other areas of life.
The Takeaway
While the idea of a potential link between ejaculation frequency and a reduced risk of prostate cancer is interesting, it’s crucial to view these findings within the broader context of men’s health. More research is needed to better understand the link between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer.
In the meantime, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, remains crucial for overall well-being. And discussing any concerns you may have around prostate health with your doctor is a crucial part of a strong defense against prostate cancer.
References:
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/prostate-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27033442/Rider JR, Wilson KM, Sinnott JA, Kelly RS, Mucci LA, Giovannucci EL. Ejaculation Frequency and Risk of Prostate Cancer: Updated Results with an Additional Decade of Follow-up. Eur Urol. 2016 Dec;70(6):974-982. doi: 10.1016/j.eururo.2016.03.027. Epub 2016 Mar 28. PMID: 27033442; PMCID: PMC5040619.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5040619/
- https://www.webmd.com/prostate-cancer/ejaculation-prostate-cancer-risk
