A study conducted by researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) suggests that drinking green tea may contribute to a lower risk of prostate cancer in older men; the study also highlights its potential benefits for weight and cholesterol management. Led by Dr. Emmanuel Amankwah Ntim from the Department of Physiology at the KNUST School of Medical Sciences, the research examined over 400 men aged 40 and above, dividing them into two groups, those who consumed green tea regularly and those who did not.
The study measured key health indicators such as weight, cholesterol levels, and PSA (prostate-specific antigen), a protein linked to prostate cancer risk. Findings, published in BMC Nutrition, revealed that men who frequently drank green tea were more likely to maintain a healthy weight and exhibit improved cholesterol levels.
Notably, older men aged 60 and above showed lower PSA levels compared to non-drinkers, suggesting a possible reduction in prostate cancer risk. Researchers also observed that among these older men, those with lower body weight had even lower PSA levels.
Despite the promising results, the study emphasizes that the findings indicate an association rather than a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Scientists stress the need for further research to determine whether green tea directly reduces prostate cancer risk.
With prostate cancer being a growing health concern, particularly in aging populations, the study opens the door for further exploration into dietary habits that could contribute to prevention strategies.