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Black men have bigger benefits from adopting healthier lifestyles after prostate cancer diagnosis

A new study reveals that African American men experience the most significant survival benefits from adopting healthier lifestyles after a prostate cancer diagnosis. Conducted by researchers from institutions including the University of Southern California and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the study found that African American men with higher lifestyle scores had a 54% lower risk of dying from prostate cancer compared to those with lower scores.

Prostate cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related death among men in the United States, with African American men facing the highest risk of prostate cancer-specific death. The study underscores the importance of modifiable behaviors, such as diet and exercise, in improving survival outcomes. Evidence suggests that post-diagnosis smoking, consumption of processed foods, and high-fat dairy products can increase mortality risks, while exercise is associated with reduced prostate cancer mortality and improved physical functioning.

Researchers noted that African American men in the study had lower initial lifestyle scores, indicating a greater opportunity for improvement. Compared to other groups, they had the highest rates of pro-inflammatory and pro-insulinemic diets, factors linked to increased mortality. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to promote healthier lifestyles among African American men, aiming to reduce disparities in prostate cancer outcomes.

See: “African American men see biggest survival gain from healthier lifestyles post prostate cancer diagnosis” (March 4, 2025) 

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