Myth or medical fact? What science really says about ejaculation frequency, prostate cancer risk

A recent viral remark by Nigerian media personality Daddy Freeze suggesting that men must ejaculate at least 21 times monthly to reduce the risk of prostate cancer has ignited widespread online debate, raising questions about the scientific accuracy of the claim and the broader relationship between sexual health and prostate cancer prevention.

While the subject has been examined in multiple scientific studies over the years, medical experts caution against drawing absolute conclusions, stressing that no universally accepted guideline exists linking a fixed ejaculation frequency to a guaranteed reduction in prostate cancer risk.

Prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting men globally. Studies estimate that approximately one in eight men will be diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lifetime.

With its prevalence and potentially life-threatening nature, public discussions about possible preventive measures often attract significant attention, making it crucial to separate scientific evidence from simplified or misleading interpretations.

Where Did the “21 Times Per Month” Claim Come From?

The frequently cited “21 times per month” figure originates from a 2004 study that tracked nearly 29,000 men over an eight-year period.

The research suggested that men who ejaculated 21 or more times monthly had about a 31 percent lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men who ejaculated between four and seven times monthly.

However, experts stress that this study did not establish causation, meaning it could not prove that ejaculation directly prevents prostate cancer. Instead, it identified an association that could be influenced by multiple lifestyle and biological factors.

Later Studies Paint a More Complex Picture

Subsequent research has produced mixed and sometimes contradictory findings, particularly when considering age differences among men.

A 2017 study that examined ejaculation frequency in relation to aggressive prostate cancer did not find consistent evidence that increased ejaculation lowers cancer risk across all age groups.

Researchers observed that men in their 30s who ejaculated more frequently might experience a slight reduction in the risk of advanced prostate cancer. However, no clear connection was found for men in their 20s, while results for men in their 40s remained inconclusive.

Similarly, a 2009 study suggested that the relationship between sexual activity and prostate cancer risk varies depending on age.

The research indicated that higher sexual activity among men in their 20s and 30s, particularly through masturbation, was associated with a slightly increased cancer risk. In contrast, among men in their 50s, more frequent sexual activity appeared to offer a modest protective effect.

Additional Research Expands the Discussion

A 2018 review examining sexual behaviour and prostate cancer risk added further nuance to the debate. The study found that men with a higher number of sexual partners experienced a slightly increased risk, with every additional 10 partners linked to about a 10 percent rise in risk.

Conversely, men who began sexual activity later in life were found to have a lower risk, with approximately a 4 percent reduction for every five-year delay.

The same review suggested that moderate ejaculation frequency—roughly two to four times per week, or eight to sixteen times monthly—may be associated with a slightly reduced prostate cancer risk.

Overall, many studies indicate that men with fewer sexual partners, later initiation of sexual activity, and moderate ejaculation patterns may experience lower prostate cancer risk, although the evidence remains inconclusive.

Scientific Consensus: No Fixed Rule Exists

Medical researchers generally agree that current evidence does not support the claim that ejaculating 21 times monthly is a medically proven requirement for reducing prostate cancer risk. The relationship between sexual activity and prostate health remains complex and requires further long-term scientific investigation.

Established Risk Factors Men Should Know

According to the American Cancer Society, several well-documented risk factors play a more significant role in prostate cancer development.

Age: Prostate cancer is rare among men under 40, but the risk increases significantly after age 50. Approximately 60 percent of prostate cancer cases occur in men older than 65.

Race and Ethnicity: African and African-descended men have been shown to face a higher risk of prostate cancer compared to other populations, although the exact reasons remain unclear. Hispanic and Asian men generally have lower risk levels.

Family History: Men with a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer have a significantly higher likelihood of developing the disease themselves.

Chemical Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals has been linked to increased risk. For example, studies suggest that exposure to Agent Orange, a chemical used during the Vietnam War, may contribute to prostate cancer development.

Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?

Health experts emphasise that there is currently no guaranteed method for preventing prostate cancer, largely because many major risk factors—such as age, genetics, and race—are beyond individual control.

However, medical authorities recommend lifestyle choices that may help reduce risk, including maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting consumption of red and processed meats, sugary beverages, and highly processed foods.

Regular medical screening also remains critical. Health professionals encourage routine check-ups, including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, particularly for men above 50 or those with family history or other risk factors.

The Bottom Line

While ejaculation frequency continues to attract public curiosity and research attention, current scientific evidence does not support the idea that a specific monthly target, such as 21 times, can prevent prostate cancer.

Experts advise men to focus instead on overall healthy living, awareness of risk factors, and regular medical screening as the most reliable strategies for protecting prostate health.

As research evolves, medical professionals stress the importance of relying on credible scientific findings rather than viral claims when making decisions about long-term health.