"Physical activity is key in the prevention of prostate cancer in Latino men."

Prostate cancer has become one of the main public health issues in Latin America, with an alarming mortality rate of 14.5% among men, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). In this context, prevention and the adoption of healthy habits are essential to combat this disease, which in many cases can go unnoticed in its early stages. Various experts have emphasized the importance of incorporating regular physical activity into daily life, highlighting specific benefits that can help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. The prostate, a small gland located beneath the bladder, plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system by producing part of the seminal fluid. However, its health can be compromised for various reasons, including age and genetic predisposition. Malignant cells can proliferate in this tissue, leading to a series of complications that could be avoided with early diagnosis and proper medical follow-up. Therefore, there is a strong emphasis on the need for regular check-ups, especially for men over 50. The World Health Organization (WHO) makes a clear call to men: engaging in 30 minutes of daily exercise is not only beneficial for maintaining a healthy weight, but it is also a key component in the strategy for preventing prostate cancer. Physical activity not only helps improve overall health but also strengthens the immune system, which can be crucial in the fight against various diseases, including cancer. Recent research has provided concrete data on the positive impact of physical activity in reducing cancer risk. The Spanish Society of Medical Oncology has noted that regular exercise could reduce the risk of developing several types of cancer, including prostate cancer, by up to 30%. In particular, stationary cycling has been mentioned as one of the most effective activities. The combination of aerobic exercise and resistance training appears to be key in prevention. A study published in the journal Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases provides additional evidence on this topic. The research shows that men with advanced prostate cancer who engaged in 34 minutes of stationary cycling were able to increase their levels of myokines, proteins that have anticancer properties, by 17%. This finding suggests that exercise is not only useful in terms of prevention but may also have a positive effect on the treatment and management of the disease. It is crucial to understand that, while exercising can reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer, it does not guarantee complete elimination. Experts suggest that, in addition to maintaining an exercise routine, it is essential to adopt a healthy lifestyle, which includes quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption. These changes can be decisive in improving overall health and reducing risks associated with multiple diseases. Carlos Núñez, head of the Urological Surgery Service at MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, has shared information about symptoms that may indicate the presence of prostate cancer. Men should be alert to signs such as difficulty urinating, frequent need to urinate at night, or pelvic pain. Early detection is vital to increase the chances of successful treatment. In addition to the physical benefits, exercise has a positive impact on mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and anxiety, factors that often affect those facing cancer diagnoses. This underscores the need to address the overall health of men, promoting not only physical activity but also emotional well-being. Promoting a culture of prevention through exercise and healthy habits is an effort that must be supported by society as a whole. Awareness and education campaigns about prostate cancer should focus on the importance of physical activity and regular medical check-ups. Only in this way can we move towards a healthier society that is prepared to face the challenges posed by prostate cancer.