September is a somber time for many Americans: a time to remember those lost in the 9/11 tragedy. Now, President Obama has decreed that September is also a time to acknowledge yet another tragedy – a silent but prolific killer: the second leading cause of cancer related deaths among men in the U.S.

Our nation’s fathers, sons, husbands, boyfriends and grandfathers are not immune to this disease and according to Obama, “studies show certain factors– including age, race, and family history– may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.  African Americans, in particular, are at a higher risk than men of other backgrounds.  I encourage all men, especially those who are at an increased risk, to talk to their doctors about ways they can reduce their chances of developing prostate cancer.”

At MediCann, we are always promoting safe, natural, medicine in the treatment of disease. We also support (and prescribe) nutrition as medicine, complementary care, exercise and relaxation (which reduces stress). What we know: stress and excess cortisol is a killer. Men in our society have much greater stress on their systems (and cortisol flowing through their veins) than their fathers did: many pull longer hours in the office, hold mortgages, and watch their 401K’s tank (and subsequently, their children’s college tuition). College grads are entering a jobless climate and boomerang back to Mom’s basement. A few recently graduated young men I treat have stated that this is one of the most stressful times in their lives, and they have little hope for the future where work is concerned. This mindset, added to uncertainty in an increasingly volatile world where job security is a distant memory, does not make for a balanced life style. Now more than ever, men need an action plan to get in front of the odds, increase their chances of prostate health, and improve their overall quality of life.

What can you do to hedge your bets against this insidious disease? A few suggestions that require no treatment, and a modicum of determination:

1. Arm Yourself: with information. The Mayo Clinic is the gold standard for cancer research. Log on….
2. Be a Quitter: Smoking causes cancer and exacerbates prostate cancer survivors in remission. Quit now.
3. Low Fat Nation: Countries who ingest higher levels of fat have more incidences of prostate cancer. Eliminate it.
4. Lean, Mean and Green: Green leafy, and dark red fruits (especially tomatoes) and veggies are rich in B vitamins (folate), antioxidants and lycopene, which lowers risk (and are delicious to boot!)
5. Watch the Sauce: 2 drinks per day is the limit, alcohol increases risk.
6. Omega Man: Omega-3 is your friend – found in fish, (not steak). So start your pescatarian lifestyle today…
7. Green Scene: Green Tea is a powerful de-toxifier and diuretic, and whisks those unwanted toxic guests right out of your body. Drink it throughout the day.
8. Breakfast of Champions: Quaker isn’t kidding – oatmeal is an internal exfoliant that also whisks away the toxins and fat and leaves you feeling full and satisfied.
9. Fight Back: Exercise fights obesity, and fit people are less at risk than couch potatoes. Grab your racket, your basketball, or just take the stairs and walk that extra mile if you can.
10. Meditation Station: Calming the mind calms the nerves, reduces inflammation and creates a happier outlook. It really works, and can be as easy as 10 minutes at your desk at lunch.
11. 8 hours of Shut Eye: Mom was right: sleep and eating right is the key to everything. Get these two down and the rest becomes just a little bit easier.
12. Check it: Men hate going to the doctor, many subscribe to the ignorance is bliss theory. Ignorance can be a death sentence – knowledge is power. Know thyself and get a prostate check up with a specialist.

A great source of cancer information is the MayoClinic.com. Log in for more ideas on how to get in front of this disease and improve your overall health score.

Yours in Health,

Dr.  Jean Talleyrand