How Prostate Health Is Not Just Cosa De Viejos And Yes, Ejaculating Actually Lowers Cancer Risk

Even though prostate issues are typically associated with older men, starting the conversation early—especially between ages 25–40—can save your life. For Latino men, where machismo and health taboos often intersect, awareness is the first step in breaking generational cycles of silence and late diagnosis.

What is generally considered to be an old man’s problem, isn’t. 

While prostate cancer is rare in men under 40, it’s not unheard of, especially if you have a family history. Risk increases significantly after age 50, but men with a father or brother who had prostate cancer are more than twice as likely to develop it themselves—and possibly at a younger age. Certain genetic mutations (like BRCA2, also linked to breast cancer) can also raise your risk early on.

In other words: your 20s and 30s are the time to learn your family history and set yourself up for prevention.

According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, “Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Hispanic/Latino men in the U.S., comprising more than 1 in 5 of all new cancer diagnoses.”

Although Latino men tend to have slightly lower rates of prostate cancer than other racial groups, prostate cancer is still the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Latino men. And research shows they’re often diagnosed later—when treatment is more difficult. Why?

• Lack of access to care, especially for immigrants or uninsured men.
  
• Cultural stigma around discussing men’s health or sexual function.
  
• Generational silence: Many Latino families don’t talk openly about cancer, so you might not know if your tío or abuelo had it.
  
• Mistrust of the medical system — especially among first-gen men.
  

So How Can You Be Proactive?

A good place to start is always by uncovering your ancestral medical history. Talk to your parents, tíos, grandparents and ask if any males in your family have been diagnosed with prostate cancer. If you discover you have a history of prostate cancer, no need to panic. Remain calm and ask follow up questions like at what age were they diagnosed? What treatment did they receive? From there it is extremely beneficial to take that information to your doctor to begin early testing like blood tests or genetic screenings. 

Secondly, you probably guessed it, diet and exercise. Multiple studies show that regular exercise— even just walking— helps reduce the risk of prostate cancer and other chronic illnesses. A Harvard study even found a 35% lower risk in those who improved their cardiovascular fitness. No gym? No problem. Soccer with the homies, weekend hikes, dancing at family parties—they all count.

As far as diet is concerned, a healthy prostate doesn’t mean cutting the foods you grew up eating. Experts recommend eating more tomatoes, leafy greens, broccoli, whole grains and less processed meats, high-fat dairy, fried food. The good news is you don’t have to give up carne asada. Just balance it with more verduras and water. 

This tip might surprise you: don’t ignore your sex drive. Studies suggest that frequent ejaculation (about 4–7 times per week) may lower prostate cancer risk later in life. Regular sexual activity, whether solo or partnered, is part of a healthy routine. In other words, your pleasure might also be part of your prevention.

When to See a Doctor

Most guys in their 20s and 30s don’t need routine prostate screening unless they’re high-risk. If you notice symptoms like pain or difficulty when peeing, blood in urine or semen or lower back or pelvic pain, it would be a good time to talk to your healthcare provider. 

You can also ask for a well-man checkup that goes beyond the standard blood pressure and weight check-in: think mental health, family planning, and long-term risk reduction.

Break the Taboo, Protect Your Prostate

Talking about prostate health shouldn’t be embarrassing. Opening up with your dad, uncle, brother, or friend could mean they catch something early—or that you do.