CYCLING, or any form of physical activity, has numerous health benefits. It improves fitness levels, promotes cardiovascular health, and is an enjoyable way to lose weight.
However, there have been claims suggesting that sitting on a bicycle saddle can be harmful to prostate health and fertility in men.
Is there any truth to these claims?
Verdict
MAYBE
According to Dr. Kevin Campbell from The Urology Group, cycling might actually reduce the chances of developing prostate cancer. He mentions a study published in 2018 in the National Library of Medicine, which found that men who engaged in vigorous cycling, averaging 25 minutes of high-intensity cycling per day, were 30% less likely to develop advanced prostate cancer. In addition, 25% of these men were less likely to develop fatal prostate cancer.
However, Dr. Campbell emphasizes the importance of moderation in cycling. Intense cycling can temporarily increase the levels of prostate-specific antigens (an enzyme found in the prostate and often associated with prostate cancer) in the blood for 24 hours. This can potentially alter PSA test results if tested soon after a hard workout. This information is sourced from urologygroup.com.
Dr. Campbell advises cyclists to use extra cushioning to minimize the risk of prostate inflammation.
Regarding male fertility, Dr. Christian Brown, a consultant urological surgeon at London’s Kings College Hospital, dismisses the claims. He states that researchers have not found any association between cycling and infertility or erectile dysfunction. He clarifies that while cycling does not directly cause these issues, it can exacerbate pre-existing conditions.
Dr. Brown explains that individuals who are older and have an enlarged prostate do not face additional problems from cycling. However, for younger men experiencing prostatitis (chronic pelvic pain syndrome), cycling can worsen their symptoms. These insights are shared in an interview with Dr. Brown on road.cc.
Sources:
https://www.urologygroup.com/4-facts-about-biking-and-the-prostate/
https://road.cc/content/feature/prostates-and-pedalling-mens-health-saddle-278399Court,
