Frequent ejaculation could play a role in lowering the risk of prostate cancer in men, according to Dr. Uche Nwokwu, National Coordinator of the National Cancer Control Programme at Nigeria’s Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
Dr. Nwokwu made the remarks on Sunday in Abuja during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), addressing viral social media claims that men should ejaculate 21 times a month to prevent the disease.
Prostate cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers affecting men worldwide and is a growing health concern in Nigeria. The Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022 report indicates it is the most common cancer among men and the second most prevalent overall, representing 14% of Nigeria’s cancer burden.
In 2022, Nigeria recorded over 18,000 new prostate cancer cases and more than 11,000 deaths, making it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among men in the country. Late diagnosis, limited screening, and low public awareness contribute to these poor outcomes.
Dr. Nwokwu highlighted that lifestyle factors, including ejaculation frequency, may influence prostate cancer risk. He referenced a large-scale 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), which found that men reporting 21 or more ejaculations per month in their 20s and 40s had a 20% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men who ejaculated four to seven times monthly.
“Studies defined frequent ejaculation as more than 20 times per month, and higher frequencies appeared linked to greater potential reductions in risk,” Dr. Nwokwu said. However, he cautioned that these studies show associations rather than direct causation.
“Other factors such as age, family history, race—particularly among African and African-American men—diet, obesity, and overall lifestyle also play critical roles. Ejaculation is just one part of the bigger picture,” he added.
Dr. Nwokwu noted that no similar study has been conducted in Nigeria, but global research consistently shows that prostate cancer is often more common and aggressive in Black men than in Caucasians. He stressed the urgent need for Nigeria to invest in local research, enhance early detection, and improve cancer treatment services while promoting healthier lifestyles among men.
“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 concluded, urging Nigerians to rely on evidence-based information and avoid misinformation that could downplay the seriousness of prostate cancer.
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