It has long been understood that there is a direct causal link between high blood pressure and a number of chronic health disorders. The links between hypertension and heart disease are particularly well documented. But recent studies in Europe and the United States are revealing that there is a surprising connection between long term high blood pressure and the development of certain cancers. These studies have specifically linked high blood pressure with an increased risk for prostate cancer in men. Even more disturbing, is the apparent link between high blood pressure and mortality rates in men diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Prostate Cancer – Associated Risk Factors
While prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer to affect men, its primary causes remain unclear. Despite years of ongoing studies, researchers are still unable to determine what causes the cells within the prostate gland to become cancerous. Certain general risk factors have been identified, however, such as the individual’s age and family history. Beyond that, little headway has been made over the years in determining the underlying cause of the disease. A recent European study looked into the correlation between certain metabolic risk factors, such as body mass index and high blood pressure, and increased instances of prostate cancer. The results were surprising. Men with a higher body mass index, particularly those who would be classified as clinically obese, had a 36% greater risk of developing prostate cancer. Even more surprising, men within the study group who suffered from long term high blood pressure had a 62% greater risk for developing prostate cancer. Of even greater concern was the increase in mortality rates. The study revealed that men suffering from high blood pressure had a 14% greater risk of dying from the disease than those with a mid-level blood pressure.
Controlling High Blood Pressure Safely
These statistics make it clear that treating high blood pressure should be a priority for men who wish to lower their risk for prostate cancer. However, the choice of treatment methods is critical. Conventional treatments for high blood pressure rely on a variety of prescription drugs that have their own attendant risks. Not only do these high blood pressure medications create an ongoing drug dependency in patients, but the medications themselves have been linked to an increased risk for certain cancers. Treating high blood pressure naturally is the key.
Natural Treatments for High Blood Pressure
Treating high blood pressure naturally begins with making some simple lifestyle changes. Diet is one of the most effective tools in controlling high blood pressure, and transitioning to a wholly vegan diet rich in organic fruits and vegetables can have a powerful impact on a person’s blood pressure. It is also important to eliminate foods that are high in cholesterol and saturated fats, and to add foods to the diet that are rich in magnesium, potassium and calcium. In addition to adopting a healthier diet, exercise is a key factor in lower the blood pressure. Studies have repeatedly shown that people who engage in physical activity on a regular basis greatly reduce their risk for developing high blood pressure. Moreover, people with elevated blood pressure who exercise 30 to 60 minutes three to four times a week can significantly decrease their blood pressure readings.
Stress Management and Deep Breathing Exercises
Stress and anxiety contribute to high blood pressure, and it is important to learn to control these two factors. Deep breathing exercises, for 15 minutes a day every day, can help to reduce stress and lower tension related high blood pressure. These breathing exercises can be combined with regular prayer to further reduce tension and eliminate the daily stresses that can so adversely affect a person’s health.
High blood pressure has often been called the silent killer, due to its association with heart disease and stroke. But new research is showing that there is a direct causal link between high blood pressure and other chronic diseases, not the least of which is cancer. To live better, and longer, it is important for men, and women, to watch their blood pressure and take natural proactive steps to keep it within healthy norms.