We are all aware that keeping an eye on our cholesterol levels is important for a healthy heart. According to the American Urological Association, recent research has shown that cholesterol levels are also important for men and the health of their prostate.
There have been two separate studies in the USA that indicates a link between cholesterol levels and health risks associated with the prostate that may lead to prostate cancer.
If you are concerned about either or both of these conditions you can test for cholesterol levels and prostate specific antigen (PSA) in the privacy of your own home.
It was shown that in a study in which 1,214 men participated and were taking statins to lower their cholesterol levels, they also experienced a proportional decline in their levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA).
As the prostate increases in size, an increased amount of PSA is secreted into the bloodstream. This new study highlights the fact that cholesterol levels could, in some way be associated with the development of prostate cancer and also its progression.
The second study showed that poor cholesterol management could not only affect a man’s risk for prostate cancer, but also the risk of the cancer recurring after prostatectomy, according to new data released earlier this year from Duke University.
Researchers looked at 471 patients that underwent radical prostatectomy between 1998 and 2007 and found that those with a high level of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and those with increased serum cholesterol were up to 2.5 times more likely to experience a biochemical relapse.
Because of this research men are being encouraged to decrease their risk of developing prostate cancer by managing their cholesterol levels.
While the association between high cholesterol and prostate health has been established by these studies, the actual reason for this is still unknown. However, these studies do show that if men look after their heart, they can help to improve the health of their prostate.
If you would like more information on home cholesterol tests please click here.
If you would like more information on the home test for PSA please click here.
