Frequent ejaculation may lower prostate cancer risk – Expert

The National Coordinator of the National Cancer Control Programme at the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Uche Nwokwu, has suggested that regular ejaculation could play a role in reducing men’s risk of developing prostate cancer.

Speaking in Abuja on Sunday during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Nwokwu addressed viral online claims that men need to ejaculate 21 times a month to guard against the disease.

Prostate cancer remains a major health challenge worldwide and is one of the most dangerous cancers affecting men in Nigeria. Data from the Global Cancer Observatory shows it is the country’s most common male cancer and the second most common overall, accounting for 14 percent of the national cancer burden.

In 2022, Nigeria recorded over 18,000 new cases and more than 11,000 deaths, making prostate cancer one of the leading causes of cancer-related fatalities among Nigerian men. Experts attribute late detection, limited screening, and low awareness as key drivers of these outcomes.

Nwokwu highlighted lifestyle choices as potential factors that influence risk, including ejaculation frequency. Citing a large 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, he explained that “men who reported 21 or more ejaculations per month in their 20s and 40s had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer.”

According to him, that research found those men had about a 20 percent reduced risk compared to individuals who ejaculated only four to seven times a month. He added that the study defined “frequent ejaculation” as more than 20 times per month, though he cautioned the findings showed associations rather than proven causation.

“Other risk factors such as age, family history, race, particularly for African and African-American men who are at higher risk, as well as diet, obesity, and overall lifestyle must also be considered. Ejaculation is only one piece of a bigger picture,” he said.

While no similar research has yet been carried out in Nigeria, Nwokwu noted that global studies consistently show prostate cancer is more prevalent and aggressive in Black men compared to Caucasians.

He stressed the importance of investing in local studies, expanding access to screening, and improving treatment facilities, while urging men to adopt healthier habits.

“The key message is that prevention and early detection save lives. Lifestyle adjustments can help, but regular screening and timely medical care remain essential,” he said.

Nwokwu also advised Nigerians to rely on credible, evidence-based information and avoid misinformation that trivialises the seriousness of prostate cancer.