Prostate health has become a hot topic—and rightly so. With PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing easily available, many men wonder: should I get screened? Is it helpful or could it cause more stress than it’s worth? And now, with new insights into genetics and lifestyle, the conversation is changing.
PSA Screening: Not Just a Simple Decision
A PSA test measures a protein made by the prostate. Higher levels might hint at prostate cancer—but also at much more harmless conditions like an enlarged prostate or inflammation. This makes interpreting PSA levels tricky, and can sometimes lead to unnecessary worries or treatments.
That’s why today’s experts recommend a more personalized approach. Instead of automatic yearly screening for everyone, it’s about understanding your personal risk—your age, family history, ethnic background, and now, your genes.
How Genetics Are Shaping the Future of Screening
Scientists have discovered that certain genetic mutations, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, can raise a man’s risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer. Knowing your genetic profile can help determine whether earlier or more frequent screening makes sense for you.
This shift toward smarter, more targeted screening means fewer unnecessary treatments—and better care for those who really need it.
Lifestyle: The Other Half of the Story
While we can’t change our genes, there’s a lot we can influence. A healthy lifestyle plays a major role in keeping the prostate—and the whole body—vibrant. Research suggests that a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains, combined with regular physical activity, can lower the risk of prostate issues.
Simple choices like:
- Eating more tomatoes (rich in lycopene),
- Including green tea and soy in your diet,
- Maintaining a healthy weight,
- Managing stress levels,
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol,
can make a real difference.
We believe that true prevention combines the best of both worlds: scientific advancements like genetic insights and natural, sustainable lifestyle practices. Together, they offer a powerful foundation for lifelong prostate health.
REFERENCES
“PSA: vriend of vijand? Is screening echt nodig? Rol van genetica”, published in Medi-Sfeer, March 2025