Functional Medicine Supporting Men’s Health
One of the most pressing men’s health concerns is prostate health. According to NHS data analysed by Prostate Cancer UK, prostate cancer officially became the most common cancer in England in January 2025. The National Prostate Cancer Audit (NATCAN) reported that 58,218 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer in England in 2024, a 9% increase on 2023.
Cancer Research UK projects that UK prostate cancer incidence rates may rise by a further 14% between 2024–2026 and 2038–2040. These numbers make it clear that prostate health can no longer be something men put off thinking about.
Understanding prostate cancer risk and the role of PSA
Prostate cancer typically develops gradually and is often asymptomatic in its earlier stages. PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing is one of the tools used in primary and secondary care to help assess prostate health, but PSA alone has well-known limitations. Levels can be influenced by age, ethnicity, certain medications, certain physical activities and other benign factors. National guidance (NICE NG131) emphasises that PSA results need to be interpreted in a clinical context, ideally by a GP or urologist, and that decisions about further investigation are individualised.
Dr Grosser does not provide prostate cancer screening, diagnosis or treatment. Men with prostate symptoms or who wish to consider PSA testing should see their GP or a urologist.
What is increasingly clear from the wider literature is that several modifiable lifestyle factors are associated with overall metabolic and cardiovascular health, and there is growing interest in their relationship to prostate biology and progression.
The role of diet and lifestyle
The evidence linking diet and metabolic health to prostate cancer risk is growing. Research published in JAMA Network Open (2024) followed over 2,000 men diagnosed with non-metastatic prostate cancer and found that individuals with the highest intake of plant foods had a lower risk of prostate cancer progression compared with those with the lowest intake. The findings are consistent with broader dietary research linking plant-predominant patterns to favourable cardiometabolic markers, although as an observational study it cannot prove causation.
General guidance from NHS, Cancer Research UK and the World Cancer Research Fund consistently supports:
- maintaining a healthy weight
- regular physical activity, including resistance training
- eating a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds
- limiting highly processed foods, processed meats and excessive alcohol
These are also among the most consistent recommendations for cardiovascular health.
The role of stress and sleep in prostate health
Chronic stress and poor sleep both have meaningful implications for prostate health and cancer risk.
Chronic psychological stress triggers sustained elevation of cortisol and other stress hormones, which can suppress immune function, promote inflammation, and disrupt hormonal balance. These are conditions that researchers have associated with increased cancer risk, though the mechanisms in prostate cancer specifically are still being studied.
Poor or disrupted sleep further elevates inflammatory markers, impairs immune surveillance, and affects hormonal regulation, including melatonin – which research has linked to prostate cancer risk.
How Dr Grosser’s consultations can help
Dr Konrad Grosser is a Consultant Cardiologist and IFM-certified Functional Medicine Practitioner. His private consultations focus on cardiovascular and metabolic health, including:
- comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment
- lipid biology and inflammation
- insulin sensitivity and body composition
- sleep, stress and lifestyle factors
He does not provide cancer screening, diagnosis or treatment. Men concerned about prostate cancer specifically should see their GP, who can arrange appropriate investigations and onward referral if needed.
For men who want a broader look at their cardiometabolic health and lifestyle profile, a consultation can offer a structured, individualised assessment alongside their existing NHS or specialist care.
This article is for general information and does not constitute medical advice or screening. It is not a substitute for assessment by your GP or specialist.
Book a consultation with Dr Konrad Grosser at KentCardio to take a more complete look at your health.
