Does a beer belly reflect a bigger prostate mass? I became aware of this during by the presentation of Dr. Nilesh Patil at the American Urology Association in San Francisco. Dr. Patil concluded that fatter men have a larger prostate tumor mass. A urologist at the Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, he based this conclusion from 3,300 surgical procedures on prostate glands. However, there had been a large variation in each group that lowers the impact of the data.

Understand where the data come from

This is observation is centered on a surgeon’s actual experiences instead of a robot’s. Removal of prostate glands (prostatectomy) of patients with beer bellies makes the procedure tricky. Technically, surgical removal of the prostate gland is more complicated on men with thick visceral fat than on lean men. The surgeon has a more difficult time to access the prostate gland in patients with a higher Body Mass Index (BMI). The thick blobs of abdominal fat result in a longer operating time and a higher risk for complications.

Cancer research

Scientifically, a thicker visceral fat increases the inflammatory process. As a result, a fertile soil is created for the development of prostate cancer. A beer belly might reflect just how big your prostate tumor mass is. The thicker and denser fat that clings to your abdominal organs, the higher tendency it is for inflammation. This is apart from your subcutaneous tissue. Isn’t it obvious? A beer belly isn’t good for your prostate.

Solution at hand

You got a beer belly? Don’t panic! Make that decision to lose that abdominal fat. Lessen your calorie intake and decrease fat in your diet. You can’t go wrong with the American Cancer Society’s recommended 5-10 fruits and vegetables every day. Walk, jog and be more active. Exercise 30 minutes a day. Be motivated and determined to lose that fat. Being lean is one great way to prevent prostate cancer or help your doctor is you need to be operated.