When Marie Curie made the invisible forces of radiation visible, she changed medicine forever. Today, we find ourselves at a similar juncture in prostate health: new data make risks measurable, decisions smarter, and prevention more effective. For men who want to combine performance, longevity, and joy of living, this is not a niche topic – it is a performance topic.

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder. With age, it often grows and can cause discomfort. Important terms: PSAProstate-specific antigen; a protein measured in the blood that provides indications of prostate activity, Prostate cancermalignant tumor of the prostate, Risk stratificationassessment of personal risk based on factors such as age, family history, ethnicity, lifestyle, Visceral fatfat tissue around the internal organs; metabolically active and associated with cancer risks. Prevention means not only detecting cancer but also reducing risks, recognizing aggressive courses early, and protecting one's performance over decades.

Why does this matter for your performance? Prostate cancer is common and can – if untreated – drastically affect energy, hormonal balance, and quality of life. Data show that smoking is associated with higher mortality in prostate cancer patients, especially in early stages where the chances of effective treatment are actually best ^[1]. Globally, the tobacco-related burden is declining, but especially older individuals benefit from targeted cessation strategies – a clear lever for more healthy years of life ^[2]. Physical inactivity and overweight contribute to cancer risks; analyses categorize prostate cancer (particularly advanced forms) within the spectrum of obesity-associated tumors – regular exercise counteracts this and stabilizes metabolic health, which is central to both cognitive and physical performance ^{[3] [4]}. Nutrition matters: very high calcium intake correlates in meta-analyses with an increased overall risk of prostate cancer – a reason to wisely dose intake rather than to supplement blindly ^[5]. Additionally, research suggests that saturated fats can activate pro-inflammatory signaling pathways that promote tumor processes – an argument for a diet focused on fat quality ^[6].

For early detection, a large primary care analysis shows: although risk-based PSA screening is recommended, it is often used too rarely in practice – particularly among high-risk groups such as men with a family history or of African American descent. The more risk factors there were, the more frequently testing occurred, but socially disadvantaged groups remained underserved. This points to the need for structured, equitable decision aids in primary care ^[7]. Regarding lifestyle, the evidence provides two strong levers: First, smoking. A global assessment indicates that the tobacco-related disease burden from prostate cancer is declining, but it continues to particularly affect older men; consistent tobacco control and tailored cessation remain essential ^[2]. Additionally, a large registry analysis from Taiwan shows that smoking is associated with higher overall mortality in prostate cancer patients – and that early disease stages are particularly vulnerable. Cessation is thus not only prevention but also prognostic medicine ^[1]. Second is exercise: experimental data demonstrate that regular endurance training lowers inflammation markers, strengthens antioxidant systems, and dampens tumor proliferation – mechanisms that make the biological environment of the tumor measurably "performance-hostile" ^[8]. Nutrition completes the picture: reviews link high levels of saturated fatty acids, particularly from certain dairy fats, to pro-inflammatory NF-κB activation and progressive tumor features; at the same time, a meta-analysis indicates a moderately increased overall risk with very high calcium intake. This means for practice: quality and quantity matter – and both are controllable ^{[6] [5]}.

- From age 50 (earlier if there is a family history or increased risk), have an informative discussion about PSA screening and establish a strategy together with your doctor. Use annual check-ups to observe trends, not just single values ^[7].
- Exercise as therapy: 150-300 minutes per week of moderate endurance training plus 2 strength training sessions. Aim for target heart rates that challenge you but allow you to speak. Consistency beats intensity. Mechanistically, inflammation control and antioxidant defense benefit ^[8].
- Plan for smoking cessation: Set a quit date, utilize behavioral therapy support, and possibly use nicotine replacement or medication. Older men particularly benefit; cessation reduces risk and improves prognoses ^{[2] [1]}. Perceived barriers are common – strengthen self-efficacy through small, measurable steps ^[9].
- Fine-tune nutrition: Reduce saturated fats (low-fat dairy products, more plant-based fats). Prioritize a fiber-rich diet, fish, nuts, and olive oil. Moderate or avoid alcohol – high amounts are correlated with advanced disease stages ^{[6] [10]}.
- Wisely dose calcium: Cover needs (e.g., through food), but avoid high-dose supplements without medical indication. Discuss total dosage of supplements with your doctor ^[5].

The coming years will bring more precise risk models that link genetics, lifestyle, and biomarkers to personalized prevention paths. Smarter screening algorithms and digital tools that reduce under-treatment in risk groups are to be expected. Those who act today will benefit tomorrow from a medicine that tailors prevention.