The Association of Urological Surgeons in Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the growing circulation of misinformation on social media and mainstream media regarding the connection between frequent ejaculation and prostate cancer risk.
In a position statement titled “Risk of Prostate Cancer and Frequency of Ejaculation,” the NAUS executive committee clarified that although some studies have explored a possible link between higher ejaculation frequency and a lower risk of prostate cancer, the evidence remains inconclusive.
The organization emphasized the need for further research to fully understand the relationship.
The statement, dated December 16, 2024 (CAC/TT/No. 125351), was jointly signed by Prof. N.K. Dakum, President, and Prof. Muhammed Ahmed, Secretary General of NAUS.
It cautioned the public against interpreting the existing research as definitive proof that frequent ejaculation can prevent prostate cancer.
The statement read, “The Association of Urological Surgeons, Nigeria (NAUS) has observed with concern the recent and continued dissemination of information on social media platforms and even the mainstream media in Nigeria regarding the relationship between sex/frequent ejaculation and the risk of prostate cancer.
“There is a need, as professionals in the field to make a statement in that regard to avoid the perpetuation of often misleading and inaccurate statements or conclusions.
“We, therefore, wish to state that while there are studies suggesting a potential association between frequent ejaculation and reduced prostate cancer risk, the evidence is not yet conclusive, and more research is needed to understand the relationship between the two fully.
“For now, caution is advised in the interpretation of the available evidence and this should not be seen as a firmly established remedy to prevent prostate cancer.
“To date, there is no firmly established means of prostate cancer prevention, thus prostate cancer screening for early detection remains the standard approach. We hope this gives some clarification on this issue.”
As there is no definitive method for preventing prostate cancer, NAUS emphasized that early detection through regular screenings remains the best strategy.
The organization encouraged the public to consult with qualified healthcare professionals for accurate, personalized advice on prostate cancer prevention and management.
Prostate cancer remains a significant health issue in Nigeria, accounting for 11-15.1 percent of all male cancer cases.
In Lagos state alone, the incidence of prostate cancer among men over 40 is estimated at 1,046 per 100,000 individuals.
The mortality rate is alarmingly high, with about 80 percent of Nigerian men diagnosed reaching the untreatable stage of the disease, leading to fatal outcomes.
This underscores the urgent need for improved awareness, better access to screening, and more effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment methods tailored to the Nigerian population.