Prostate Cancer
Researchers at the US National Cancer Institute have published a study that suggests the more orgasms a man has, the more likely he is to be protected from prostate cancer - a health risk facing many men as they age.
"We were quite surprised by the results," Dr Michael Leitzmann told Canada's Globe and Mail, noting earlier studies found frequent sex increased the risk of prostate cancer.
Over the course of eight years, researchers followed 29,342 men, aged 46-81. Those who enjoyed 21 or more ejaculations each month were 33 percent less likely to develop prostate cancer than men who only experienced four to seven ejaculations during the same time.
Dr Leitzmann, who published the findings in the Journal of the American Medical Association, admits 21 ejaculations is a "high number" and cautioned the figure is based on a number averaged over a lifetime.
Researchers are now looking for theories on why frequent ejaculation is so beneficial.
One theory is that it cleans out potentially harmful cancer-causing chemicals that obstruct some of the ducts used to produce the fluid that is a component of semen.
Another theory is that "ejaculation seems to be accompanied by a release of psychological tension," explained Dr Leitzmann, adding it could calm the nervous system and help decrease factors that can lead to cancerous growths.
The study focused mostly on white health professionals. Leitzmann admitted it is unclear whether similar results would be found in African Americans, who have much higher prostate cancer rates.
Dr Jason Schneider, a board member with the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA), wondered if the study asked about sexual orientation. He said he was unaware if there was research regarding a disparity for prostate cancer incidence in heterosexual men versus homosexual men.
"The study is important to all men, regardless of sexual orientation," he said. "But the question of who is at risk has not been answered when it comes to gay men."
Dr Schneider hopes the study will keep men mindful of prostate cancer and on the lookout for symptoms during urination, such as "hesitancy and a narrowing of the urinary stream."
"We don't have good screening tests for prostate cancer," he said. "They're not as good as the tests for breast cancer, cervical cancers and colon cancer."
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Prostate problems
Prostate problems
The prostate is located just below the bladder, the prostate gland is 'hooked-up' to the plumbing along which your sperm travels. It is responsible for producing the fluid in which sperm swim and a secretion which keeps the urethra moist.
As men get older it gets bigger and can sometimes begin to squash the tube that takes urine out of the body.
It can become inflamed or infected, most common in men 25-45yrs.
It can get enlarged to the size of a large apple if left untreated.
Prostate cancer usually occurs to those over 50 but can happen earlier.
Signs and symptoms that something is wrong include:
Needing to pee often and getting little warning that you need to go.
It is harder to start or stop pissing.
Lots of dribbling when you stop pissing.
It becomes a strain to empty your bladder.
Dribbling piss.
Prostate cancer
Early prostate cancer rarely causes any symptoms, these only occur at a later stage of the disease. The prostate - specific antigen (PSA) test may help to detect early prostate cancer but because many small prostate cancers are not dangerous, it is not yet known whether early detection and screening is worthwhile for prostate cancer.
Usually Prostate cancer affects men after they get into their 40s onwards but can be treated effectively if found early. The symptoms above may point to prostate problems and are sometimes felt by men with prostate cancer, but not always. If you are 45 or over, you should have yearly checks which can be performed simply by a doctor.
If you have any of these symtoms, get checked out by your doctor. If you have questions call or email the gay guy in the Gay Men's Wellness Program.
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Aeschylusp
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