We all know getting enough sleep is crucial for good health, and it turns out it may be just as important for avoiding prostate cancer.

A recent study found that men who have trouble falling asleep have a 70% higher chance of getting prostate cancer, and those who have trouble staying asleep have twice the risk. The correlation was even stronger between sleep difficulties and advanced prostate cancer.

A correlation between disturbed sleep and breast cancer is already well-established, and a lack of sleep has also been linked to many other medical issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Therefore, the link between poor sleep and prostate cancer doesn’t come as much of a surprise. Sleep is crucial for the health of your entire body, and the prostate is no exception.

For more information on how to prevent prostate cancer or to discuss treatment options, contact the best urology doctor in Las Vegas at (702) 454-6226 to schedule a consultation.

Main photo by Tony Alter

It was once thought that tomatoes were beneficial for preventing prostate cancer. The key nutrient in this theory is lycopene – the molecule that gives tomatoes their red color. Lycopene has been shown to have strong antioxidant properties, so it is logical to think that it would be a cancer fighting super food. However, the initial studies that suggested this link were never successfully duplicated. Modern tests use bio markers to precisely locate chemicals in the body, and after numerous tests, no link could be found. Thus, based on the information we have now, eating tomatoes does not prevent prostate cancer.

Myth or not, they are still tasty.

While no clear link could be found, that certainly doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy your tomatoes; there a still plenty of health benefits to be had from tomatoes (like heart function and natural UV protection). In the meantime, it’s a good idea to get screened regularly to maintain a healthy prostate. For more information on prostate screening, or to find a urologist in Las Vegas, see the professionals at the office of Dr. Michael S. Kaplan.