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On this episode of Longevity by Design, Dr. Gil Blander welcomes Dr. John Erdman to discuss prostate cancer and the impact of diet on disease progression. John shares his personal connection to this disease and why he’s dedicated his research to understanding dietary interventions.
John explains that prostate cancer is often slow-growing, with most men experiencing decades between early mutations and noticeable tumor growth. He stresses the importance of early detection through regular checkups, including digital exams and PSA tests. While the medical community debates the effectiveness of these tests, John advocates for establishing a baseline to monitor for any sudden changes.
John's research reveals a strong link between tomato consumption and reduced prostate cancer risk. He believes this protective effect stems from lycopene and its metabolites, which may influence gene expression. John emphasizes that while tomato consumption shows promise, maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise are equally crucial for long-term health.
Episode highlights:
- Introduction: 00:00:00
- The Stages and Progression of Prostate Cancer: 00:06:00
- Diagnosing Prostate Cancer: Methods and Considerations: 00:11:00
- The Role of Specific Foods in Prostate Cancer Risk Reduction: 00:22:00
- Exploring the Link Between Gut Microbes and Prostate Cancer: 00:30:00
- Top tip to improve healthspan: 00:34:00
Early Detection is Crucial for Prostate Cancer Treatment
Prostate cancer is often slow-growing in its initial stages, making early detection a powerful tool. John emphasizes that men should consider establishing a baseline for digital exams and PSA tests, despite ongoing debates about their efficacy. This proactive approach allows for early identification of any sudden changes, significantly increasing successful treatment options and long-term survival rates.
Tomato Consumption Shows Promise in Prostate Cancer Prevention
John's research highlights a potential link between consuming tomato products and a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer. Lycopene, a pigment found in tomatoes, and its metabolites may play a role in influencing gene expression related to cancer growth. While further research is necessary, incorporating tomatoes into your diet might offer a protective benefit.
Lifestyle Choices Are Key to Long-Term Health and Cancer Prevention
Beyond specific dietary interventions, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet remains crucial for overall health and cancer prevention. John emphasizes that these lifestyle choices are fundamental, particularly in younger years, to mitigate the risk of developing chronic diseases like prostate cancer later in life.
The Stages and Progression of Prostate Cancer
John provides a detailed explanation of the various stages of prostate cancer, emphasizing the typical slow growth and delayed progression that often occurs over decades. He distinguishes between the more aggressive forms diagnosed in younger men and the more common, slower-growing types found later in life. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding the role of androgens, like testosterone, in fueling tumor growth, and how treatments often aim to suppress these hormones.
"Prostate cancer goes through different stages. The prostate is a gland surrounding the urethra, which drains urine from the bladder. Many older men have urinary problems because the prostate grows over time and shrinks down on this tube, the urethra."
Diagnosing Prostate Cancer: Methods and Considerations
The discussion delves into the methods used to diagnose prostate cancer, including digital exams, PSA tests, and biopsies. John acknowledges the controversies surrounding PSA testing, particularly the risk of overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment. He stresses the importance of personalized consultations with physicians to weigh the risks and benefits, advocating for "watchful waiting" in certain cases rather than immediate intervention.
"Ten or 15 years ago, there were a lot of over operations. As soon as PSA went up and they found a little bit of cancer, the recommendation was for men to have their prostate removed, and they probably went overboard on too much surgery."
The Role of Specific Foods in Prostate Cancer Risk Reduction
John elaborates on the impact of nutrition on prostate cancer risk and progression. He highlights the benefits of consuming fruits, vegetables, and specifically tomato products. He explains that lycopene, a pigment found in tomatoes, has shown potential in reducing cancer growth in animal studies. The conversation emphasizes that early dietary intervention is crucial, as these protective effects are less pronounced once the cancer reaches an advanced stage.
"We've done work with several cancers — transplantable tumors, transgenic tumors in rats and mice. In all cases, we're showing that we'll take a whole tomato, cook it, freeze-dry it, put it in animal diets, and look for cancer progression or tumor growth. In several models, we always see an effect of lowering the rate of cancer growth."
Exploring the Link Between Gut Microbes and Prostate Cancer
John discusses a fascinating new area of research focusing on the connection between gut microbes and prostate cancer. He explains that contrary to previous beliefs, urine is not sterile and contains various bacteria. Some of these microbes can produce androgens, potentially impacting cancer growth, especially in men undergoing hormone-suppressing therapies. This research suggests a complex interplay between diet, gut health, and prostate cancer development.
"The future direction is, in men who have androgens reduced by either castration or drugs, will these organisms produce enough androgens to keep the cancers growing? That's the question."
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Longevity by Design is a podcast for individuals looking to experience longer, healthier lives. In each episode, Dr. Gil Blander and Ashley Reaver join an industry expert to explore a personalized health journey. The show helps you access science-backed information, unpack complicated concepts, learn what’s on the cutting edge of longevity research and the scientists behind them. Tune into Longevity by Design and see how to add years to your life, and life to your years.