Regular Sex as a Preventive Measure Against Prostate Cancer: The Urgent Need for Awareness and Lifestyle Change Among Nigerian Men

Regular Sex as a Preventive Measure Against Prostate Cancer: The Urgent Need for Awareness and Lifestyle Change Among Nigerian Men

By Daniel Nduka Okonkwo

While those responsible for building hospitals in Nigeria seek medical treatment abroad, the common man is left with very limited options. Nigerian women must understand that their beds should be “shaking every night” because regular sexual activity may, in fact, help lower the risk of prostate cancer. Unfortunately, we do not have a robust healthcare system to support the ordinary Nigerian man who develops this disease. Where, then, is the government in all of this?

The sad truth is that approximately one in eight Nigerian men may develop prostate cancer in their lifetime. This translates to about 13% of men who will be diagnosed with the disease at some point. Nigerian men are not exempt from this reality. The good news, however, is that in its early stages, prostate cancer is highly treatable, with five-year survival rates close to 100%.

Yet awareness remains a major challenge, and silence continues to claim lives. I was personally reminded of this harsh truth on October 20, 2025, when I lost my in-law to prostate cancer. His death reignited my resolve to enlighten Nigerian men about the importance of early detection and healthy living.

Cancer remains one of humanity’s deadliest killers. If there is anything humanly possible to do to prevent it or at least lower the risk we must do it.

Cancer develops when cells in the body sustain damage to their DNA. This damage can be inherited, occur spontaneously, or be caused by environmental factors such as tobacco smoke, radiation, infections, certain foods, or unhealthy lifestyles. In the case of prostate cancer, the disease begins when cells in the prostate gland start growing uncontrollably.

Over time, these abnormal cells can multiply and form a tumor. If left untreated, parts of the tumor may break off and spread to other areas of the body a process known as metastasis.

Risk factors include older age, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle habits. Although scientists continue to study the exact cellular changes that trigger prostate cancer, there is no doubt that prevention and early diagnosis remain the most powerful weapons.

Lifestyle choices significantly influence prostate health. Studies have shown that regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can reduce cancer risks. However, a lesser-known but intriguing finding relates to sexual activity.

According to a Harvard study, men who ejaculated more frequently showed a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. Specifically, men who reported 21 or more ejaculations per month had a 31% lower risk compared to those who averaged only 4–7 times per month.

Researchers suggest this may be because ejaculation helps clear out potentially harmful substances from the prostate, maintaining a healthier cellular environment. Importantly, the results held even after accounting for other lifestyle factors and screening frequency.

For the Nigerian man whose sexual behavior may be influenced by cultural norms, socioeconomic factors, and access to health education this is a critical insight. Regular, healthy sexual activity may be one of several natural ways to support prostate health.

One of the greatest challenges with prostate cancer is that it often shows no symptoms in its early stages. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may already be advanced. Men should pay attention to the following warning signs:

Frequent urination, especially at night

Weak or interrupted urine flow

Difficulty starting or stopping urination

Pain or burning sensation while urinating

Sudden inability to urinate

Blood in the urine or semen

Painful ejaculation or erectile dysfunction

Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis

Unexplained weight loss or fevers

Loss of bladder or bowel control

Bone pain (a possible sign that the cancer has spread)

If any of these symptoms occur persistently, it’s vital to see a doctor immediately. Screening remains the best way to catch prostate cancer before it becomes life-threatening.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A quick physical examination that allows the doctor to feel for abnormalities in the prostate.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A simple blood test that measures PSA levels, which may rise when prostate cancer is present.

These tests can help detect prostate cancer early often before symptoms appear.

While prostate cancer cannot be completely prevented, men can significantly reduce their risk through healthy choices:

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

Limit red and processed meats, dairy, and foods high in unhealthy fats.

Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and boost immunity.

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

Stay sexually active within healthy and moral bounds, as research suggests potential protective benefits.

Go for regular screenings, especially after age 40 or if there’s a family history of the disease.

The fight against prostate cancer is not just medical it’s also cultural and educational. Nigerian men must overcome fear, stigma, and ignorance about prostate health. Too many lives have been lost in silence; too many families left grieving because early signs were ignored.

Men must take charge of their health not just for themselves, but for their families and communities. Early detection saves lives. Lifestyle changes save lives. And awareness, above all, saves lives.

Cancer is ruthless, but knowledge and action can defeat it.

Daniel Nduka Okonkwo is a seasoned writer, human rights advocate, and public affairs analyst, widely recognized for his incisive commentary on governance, justice, and social equity. Through his platform, Profiles International Human Rights Advocate, he has consistently illuminated critical social and political issues in Nigeria and beyond, championing accountability, transparency, and reform. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 published articles available on Google, Okonkwo’s works have appeared in prominent outlets such as Sahara Reporters and other leading media platforms. Beyond journalism, he is an accomplished transcriptionist and experienced petition writer, known for his precision and persuasive communication. He also works as a ghostwriter and freelance journalist, contributing his expertise to diverse projects that promote truth, integrity, and the protection of human rights.