98% of men say they do it; the other 2% are lying. But far from it being something to be embarrassed about, researchers have strong indications that this very common activity could have uncommon effects in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. I’m talking about, dare I say it, masturbation folks.

I took a lot of flak recently for suggesting that good hydration can reduce the risk of getting certain cancers. So, I decided to do a little digging around on natural, cheap and effective ways to reduce the risk of cancer. BBC news, a place I rely upon for much of my world news, came to my rescue. And while I know the topic will probably cause even more controversy, I think it’s worth the discussion. We’re all adults here folks.

The masturbation study was conducted by the Cancer Council Victoria, in Melbourne Australia. It was actually a study in response to research that suggested high levels of sexual activity with numerous partners increased a man’s risk of prostate cancer by up to 40%.

However, the study didn’t take into account the fact that ejaculation may in fact be a way to help flush out carcinogens from the prostate. While safety concerns are raised when having a lot of sex, there is nothing at all unsafe about masturbation (well, I guess that depends on how you do it. The Michael Hutchence case springs to mind).

There are various prostate health drugs and vitamins on the market, including Saw Palmetto, which cost varying amounts. Some Protate Health combinations can cost $30-$40 a month. And yet, science is saying the simplest way to prevent prostate cancer, gents, is to take matters into your own hands…literally. And not only does it feel a lot better than taking a vitamin, it’s also free.

So, how many times should you "do it?"

The magic number seems to be almost daily. From the article…



Men who ejaculated more than five times a week were a third less likely to develop prostate cancer later in life. Australian researchers questioned over 1,000 men who had developed prostate cancer and 1,250 who had not about their sexual habits. They found those who had ejaculated the most between the ages of 20 and 50 were the least likely to develop the cancer. The protective effect was greatest while the men were in their 20s.

Researchers also have a theory that regular ejaculation helps the prostate gland mature, which makes it less susceptible to carcinogens.

Dr Chris Hiley, head of policy and research at the UK's Prostate Cancer Charity, told BBC News Online: "This is a plausible theory." She added: "In the same way the human papillomavirus has been linked to cervical cancer, there is a suggestion that bits of prostate cancer may be related to a sexually transmitted infection earlier in life."

So forget the ridiculous tales of hairy palms and blindness. Not only is there nothing wrong with masturbation, it’s considered to be a healthy and cancer-preventing part of your daily routine. Go for it.

For more information of the findings, read the BBC article here.