What should we tell prostate cancer patients about (secondary) prevention?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To briefly summarize the epidemiologic findings of selected lifestyle factors for prostate cancer progression, metastasis, or death, with a focus on behaviors after diagnosis where possible. We conclude by providing guidance on the lifestyle practices that physicians may wish to prioritize for discussion with their patients.

RECENT FINDINGS: Growing, but still limited, evidence suggests that lifestyle factors after prostate cancer diagnosis may impact prostate-cancer-specific and overall morality. In particular, smoking and obesity may increase the risk of disease progression and mortality, whereas engaging in vigorous physical activity or brisk walking and consuming a diet rich in vegetables (particularly tomato sauce and cruciferous) and vegetable fats may lower the risk.

SUMMARY: Patients should be counseled not to use tobacco products; to engage in daily physical activity; to minimize sedentary behavior; to consume plenty of healthy fats (i.e. fish, nuts, vegetable oils, soybeans, avocados, and flaxseed) and vegetables; to focus on getting nutrients from foods rather than supplements; and to limit refined grains, sugars, processed meat, and high-fat dairy.