Healthy Diet and Fitness Program May Improve Prostate Cancer Outcomes

A diet and exercise regimen may enhance outcomes for men undergoing prostate cancer treatment, according to a recent study. Researchers from the United Kingdom found that a supervised program, called STAMINA, which includes regular exercise, dietary guidance, and behavioral support, could improve the quality of life for men receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

Androgen deprivation therapy, commonly used to treat prostate cancer, works by lowering androgen hormone levels in the body. This treatment can lead to side effects such as reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, bone density loss, fatigue, and mood changes. The STAMINA program, funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), aimed to determine whether a lifestyle intervention integrated into cancer care could improve cancer-specific quality of life and fatigue.

The study monitored 700 men receiving ADT for prostate cancer at 15 NHS facilities in England. Participants were randomly assigned to either the STAMINA group or a standard supplementary treatment group. Over the 12-month trial period, the STAMINA group, which included supervised aerobic and resistance exercises, dietary advice, and behavioral support, had a 33% lower deterioration in quality of life compared to the control group.

The researchers noted that the STAMINA program was not only cost-effective but also met best practice guidelines, making it feasible for implementation in NHS trusts in England. Furthermore, the program's success has led to plans for expansion to breast and bowel cancer care in 50,000 medical facilities by 2030.

Urologist S. Adam Ramin, MD, who was not involved in the study, emphasized that lifestyle modifications, such as consuming a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, legumes, and healthy fats, as well as regular exercise, can significantly benefit men undergoing prostate cancer treatment. Ramin suggested that regular exercise can boost prostate health by reducing mental stress and promoting overall well-being through the release of endorphins.