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A recent study led by researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has shed light on the potential benefits of a plant-based diet for prostate cancer patients. The analysis, encompassing more than 3,500 men with prostate cancer, suggests that adopting a diet low in meat and dairy but high in fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts may be associated with lower rates of erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and other common side effects post-treatment.
The study, published online on February 13 in the journal Cancer, delved into whether a plant-based diet could mitigate the quality-of-life issues often experienced by prostate cancer patients following treatment. Sorting participants into five groups based on their consumption of plant versus animal foods, the researchers found significant associations between a higher intake of plant-based foods and improved outcomes across various measures.
Notably, the group consuming the most plants scored 8% to 11% better in measures of sexual function compared to those consuming the least plants. Similarly, up to 14% better scores were observed for urinary health, with fewer instances of incontinence, obstruction, and irritation. Additionally, hormonal health, which assesses symptoms like low energy, depression, and hot flashes, showed up to 13% better scores among individuals with the highest quintile of plant-based diet compared to the lowest.
Lead author of the study, urologist Stacy Loeb, MD, emphasized the significance of these findings in improving the quality of life for prostate cancer survivors. Dr. Loeb, who is also a professor in the Departments of Urology and Population Health at NYU Langone Health, noted, “Adding more fruits and vegetables to their diet, while reducing meat and dairy, is a simple step that patients can take.”
Prostate cancer remains one of the most prevalent and deadliest forms of cancer among American men, as per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Previous research from the same team had already suggested that a plant-based diet may reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, this study is believed to be the first of its kind to demonstrate better urinary health in prostate cancer patients based on nutrition.
The research, which analyzed data from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, underscores the importance of nutrition in influencing risks related to cancer and other serious illnesses. The findings add to the growing body of evidence supporting the health and environmental benefits of plant-based diets while challenging misconceptions about the relationship between meat consumption and sexual function.
Dr. Loeb highlighted the need for further research involving more diverse patient populations and individuals with advanced stages of the disease to validate these findings. Nonetheless, the study offers promising insights into the potential role of dietary interventions in improving the lives of prostate cancer patients post-treatment.
