In 2022, about 268,500 American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Not all of them will need treatment right away, if at all. For men who have small, slow-growing prostate cancer, the doctor may suggest “active surveillance.” This is a type of close follow-up with periodic lab tests and biopsies. New research finds exercise may have physical and mental benefits for men going through active surveillance.

The new ERASE (Exercise during Active Surveillance for Prostate Cancer) Trial followed men with prostate cancer that had not spread, who were under active surveillance. Half of the men exercised at high intensity on a treadmill three times a week for 12 weeks. The other half did not exercise.

Among the men who exercised, researchers found that they had lower levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). This protein can be a sign of prostate cancer and also a sign of other non-cancerous prostate conditions, like an enlarged prostate. In men who exercised, PSA levels also rose more slowly, which suggests exercise may decrease cancer growth.

Researchers found men who did high-intensity exercise had improved cardiorespiratory fitness. This is a measure of how well your heart and lungs work together to bring oxygen to your muscles during exercise.

The trial also found men who exercised had:

• less anxiety about their prostate cancer
• less fear of their cancer getting worse
• fewer hormone symptoms
• less stress
• less fatigue
• better self-esteem

Active surveillance usually involves regular PSA tests and digital rectal exams (DRE). These tests tell if the cancer is growing. It also includes prostate biopsies (tissue samples). Biopsies can help predict how quickly the cancer is likely to grow and spread. If these tests show your cancer is changing, your doctor may discuss other forms of treatment with you.

Men diagnosed with prostate cancer may be a good fit for active surveillance if they:

• have prostate cancer that is slow-growing.
• are diagnosed with an early stage of prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate.
• do not have symptoms.

The main benefit of active surveillance is that it avoids many risks and side effects from treatment. But, with this approach the cancer could grow and spread during follow-up. This could make the cancer harder to treat. Talk with your doctor about whether active surveillance is a good choice for you.

Eating healthy may play a role in cancer prevention. Many cancers are linked to excess weight. Healthy eating also helps people during cancer treatment and recovery. Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy and other cancer treatments can take a toll on the body. They may affect taste, smell, appetite and the ability to absorb nutrients from food.

If you or someone you love is dealing with cancer, talk with your doctor or care team about what is best to eat and drink during cancer treatments. They may refer you to a dietitian who can help you with your diet during and after treatments.

Here are some living healthy basics you can apply:

Stay Hydrated

Your body needs a certain amount of liquid to function well. This is called hydration. Water, fruits, vegetables, smoothies, some soups, decaffeinated tea and unsweetened drinks are some examples for how to keep hydrated.

Eat Healthy

When choosing foods, try reaching for whole fruits, vegetables, legumes (like peas or beans) and other low-calorie options. Consider eating whole grains instead of refined grains. For example, choose whole-grain bread, pasta and cereal instead of refined foods like pastries, white rice or sugary cereals.

Check Nutrition Labels

Learn what to look for on the label. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires food companies to provide certain information on the nutrition labels printed on food packages. Nutrition labels can be filled with useful clues. When you eat something from a box, bag or fast food restaurant, look for options with less sugar, salt and calories.

Commit to Exercise

A doctor-approved workout may strengthen your body, improve your hormone levels and the way your immune system works. Even a little exercise to keep active can make a difference.

Stop Tobacco Use

Tobacco can cause cancer. There are benefits to stopping tobacco use at any age. Talk to your doctor if you are having trouble quitting the use of tobacco.

Plan Ahead for Travel

Pack healthy snacks for long trips or doctor visits. Try packing a small cooler with hummus and vegetables or apples and peanut butter. Or keep it simple with whole-grain crackers or trail mix. When you eat out, try to choose salads or grilled items instead of fried foods. When grocery shopping on the road, look for low-fat prepared meals, salads or rotisserie chicken options.