Yet Another Weight Warning – For Men

We’ve mentioned the importance of a trim figure before. Now there’s a new report suggesting that some men have an added reason to keep their weight within normal limits.

University of Texas scientists studied men who had prostate cancer surgery for an average of 4½ years. Of those who gained an average of 3½ pounds a year or more, 18% had evidence of recurrence of their cancer – i.e. an increased PSA (prostate specific antigen) level. The greater the weight gain, the greater the risk. And it was even worse for younger patients, i.e. those with weight gain between ages 25 and 40.

It’s thought that obesity is linked to lower testosterone levels and higher insulin levels, both of which can affect cancer outcome. More studies are needed. In the meantime, the finding is another reason for men to watch their waistline.