During a discussion on this week's Ultimate Health some interesting statements  were made with regard to prostate health. The doctors on the panel stated that "21 ejaculations or more per month can protect you (males) from prostate cancer".

The explanation for this was that during ejaculation, the body is able to get rid of toxins and any other unwanted substances that may contribute to one developing prostate cancer.  

In as much as these 21 ejaculations may offer protection from prostate cancer, it is also not advisable to indulge in sexual promiscuity lest one contracts a sexually transmitted disease.

There is no known cause of prostate cancer. However, research is still ongoing to pinpoint a particular cause.

In the course of the discussion, other important utterances were also made with regard to risk factors of prostate cancer. This includes old age ( 65 years and above) and eating food that contains low levels of Vitamin D. Low levels of Vitamin D has been linked to aggressive prostate cancer. 

Furthermore, being African American or belonging to the black race also poses a risk of prostate cancer because of the low levels of Vitamin D in these individuals. 1 in 4 black males are prone to developing prostate cancer.

Also, if there is a family history of breast cancer, one is more likely to develop prostate cancer due to the fact that the genes involved in causing these two diseases are similar. 

It is normal for the prostate to enlarge above the age of 45. Enlargement  of the prostate may cause obstruction of urine. Symptoms of urinary obstruction include frequency and urgency of urination. However, frequency and urgency of urination is not specific to prostate cancer but may be an indication of bladder problems as well.

The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test is used to assess the function of the prostate. PSA is a substance produced by the prostate gland; high levels may indicate an overactive gland. This may or may not be an indication of prostate cancer.  The PSA test has been abolished in some countries but it is still used in Ghana (due to the fact that it can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment).

The prostate gland is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. A digital rectal examination can be used to assess whether there is prostate gland enlargement or not.This can be done in a hospital by a qualified health professional passing his or her finger through the rectum. If the gland is enlarged, it would be felt by the finger.

Hibiscus (Sobolo) is known to help in improving prostate health. So cheers to the lovers of 'Sobolo'.

It is important to visit the doctor at least once in a year to assess the function of the prostate gland.

Don't forget to tune in to Ultimate Health at 2pm every Sunday. Thank you for reading.