Movember: The link between metabolic health and prostate cancer
Learn how metabolic syndrome can raise the risks of prostate cancer
November, or "Movember," is an annual campaign to raise awareness of men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. Prostate cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges for men worldwide, and research increasingly shows a connection between metabolic health and cancer risk. In safety-critical industries such as aviation, construction, and emergency response - the physical and mental demands make it essential for men to maintain optimal metabolic health. Supporting metabolic well-being can reduce cancer risk and enhance job performance and safety.
This Movember, we’re spotlighting the importance of metabolic health in preventing prostate cancer and how tailored health initiatives, including employee health screening, can help men in safety-critical roles stay fit, focused, and resilient.
Prevention is key
Movember UK’s research reveals that regular physical activity and a healthy metabolism are closely tied to lower prostate cancer risk. Poor metabolic health, marked by elevated blood sugar levels, high cholesterol, obesity, and insulin resistance, can create an environment in which cancers, including prostate cancer, are more likely to develop. For men in safety-critical industries, the stakes are even higher. Irregular hours, high stress, and disrupted sleep patterns often compromise metabolic health, increasing the likelihood of obesity and related conditions that may raise cancer risk.
By encouraging men to focus on their metabolic health through annual health screenings, healthy diet, and consistent exercise, employers can play a vital role in cancer prevention and overall well-being.
How shift work affects men's health
In the UK, almost 5 million men work night shifts or non-standard hours, and many of these roles are in industries where safety is paramount. Working night shifts and irregular hours disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, which negatively impacts metabolism and can elevate cancer risk. Research shows that disrupted sleep cycles interfere with the body’s ability to regulate glucose and insulin, contributing to conditions like obesity and Type 2 diabetes, which are metabolic markers also associated with a higher risk of cancer. It also suggests that improving metabolic health can be a protective factor against prostate cancer, making it an urgent focus for men in high-stress roles.
The Trade Union Congress emphasises the negative effects of shift work on both physical and mental health, noting how irregular sleep and eating patterns can lead to poor metabolic health. These findings underscore the need for tailored strategies to support men in safety-critical industries, where managing metabolic health could also reduce cancer risks and improve overall performance.
Daily lifestyle changes for better health and prevention
Supporting men’s metabolic health and cancer prevention in safety-critical industries requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some key strategies:
- Health Screenings: Regular screenings help detect early metabolic markers linked to prostate cancer risk, such as high blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Routine glucose and metabolic testing allow men to address these risks early. Qured’s health tests make it easy for men to track these markers, supporting both cancer prevention and metabolic health.
- Focus on Nutrition: A balanced diet with nutrient-dense foods supports metabolic health and keeps blood sugar stable, which is essential for men working demanding hours. A diet rich in fibre, lean proteins, and healthy fats has been shown to support energy levels and reduce metabolic strain. Employers can support men in safety-critical roles by providing healthy food options, such as daily fruit, particularly during late or irregular shifts when choices are limited.
- Prioritise Physical Activity: Physical activity is critical for preventing obesity, improving insulin sensitivity, and supporting heart health, all contributing to reduced cancer risk. Movember UK emphasises exercise as a major preventive measure for prostate cancer. Employers can facilitate fitness by providing access to exercise facilities, integrating movement breaks into the workday, or offering programmes encouraging active lifestyles.
- Optimise Sleep Quality: Shift work often makes quality sleep challenging, but employers can promote good sleep hygiene by offering guidance on regular sleep schedules, blackout curtains, and reducing caffeine intake before bed. Quality sleep is a cornerstone of metabolic health, helping to regulate glucose and reduce the likelihood of weight gain, both of which contribute to cancer prevention.
How Qured can help
Qured’s at-home metabolic health screen is designed to help men in safety-critical industries proactively manage their metabolic health, supporting cancer prevention and general well-being. We also offer a specific prostate cancer screen, also known as a PSA test, which is an at-home blood test to check for prostate conditions, including prostate cancer.
By providing remote, convenient testing options, Qured enables employees to monitor health markers like diabetes risk or HbA1c, cholesterol, and blood pressure, which are directly related to cancer risk and metabolic health.
Through Qured, men can receive tailored guidance on diet, exercise, and sleep - three critical areas in maintaining metabolic health and reducing prostate cancer risk. For business leaders, investing in Qured’s health screening services means contributing to a safer, healthier workforce, ultimately reducing absenteeism and improving performance.
Get in touch to learn more about implementing comprehensive metabolic health screenings and support programmes for your team.