In Nigeria and across many African communities, a controversial belief has gained popularity: the idea that men must have sex at least 21 times a month to reduce their chances of developing prostate cancer. Some men even interpret this as permission to step outside their marriages if their wives cannot meet such demands. While this narrative sounds bold, it is built on half-truths and dangerous assumptions that are not only misleading but also harmful to homes, relationships, and the dignity of women.
The myth is rooted in scientific research that suggests frequent ejaculation may play a role in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Some studies, including those from Harvard and other respected institutions, found that men who ejaculated more often appeared to have a lower risk compared to those who did less frequently. One large study showed that men who ejaculated more than 20 times a month had about a 20 per cent lower risk than those who only did so 4 to 7 times. While these findings are interesting, they do not provide a license for reckless behaviour. Science does not say that infidelity or excessive sex is a cure for cancer. At best, ejaculation is only one small factor among many, and it should never be elevated to a single “rule” that men must obey to stay healthy.
Unfortunately, this misinterpretation has already caused cracks in many homes. Some men have been advised, directly or indirectly, to take on side partners if their wives cannot meet this supposed quota. This not only cheapens marriage but also objectifies women, treating them as mere tools in the fight against illness. A healthy marriage should never be measured by how many times sex happens in a month, but rather by love, respect, and mutual understanding. When fear of disease is used to pressure women or to justify unfaithfulness, it damages the very foundation of trust on which marriages are built.
Also Read: Cervical Cancer Awareness: A Call to Action for Young Nigerian Women
The reality is that prostate cancer prevention goes far beyond counting the number of times a man has sex. A balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fish, and fruits, and limiting excess alcohol or red meat has been shown to make a real difference. Regular medical check-ups and prostate screenings are also vital, especially for men over 45 or those with a family history of the disease. Early detection remains one of the strongest defences against prostate cancer, and ignoring this while chasing myths about sex is a dangerous gamble.
Equally important is the need to respect women in this conversation. No wife should feel pressured into sexual activity she is not comfortable with, all in the name of preventing cancer. Sex is meant to be an intimate and consensual act that strengthens emotional bonds, not a medical chore or a marital obligation tied to fear. Encouraging men to seek side relationships not only disrespects women but also exposes both partners to greater risks, including sexually transmitted infections.
For Nigerian men, young and old, the message is simple: protect your prostate with knowledge, not myths. Ejaculation may play a role, but it is not a cure, and certainly not a reason to break trust in your marriage. The real battle against prostate cancer is fought through lifestyle choices, medical care, and mutual respect at home. Our health as men must never come at the expense of our partners’ dignity. By embracing the right information, we can protect both our bodies and our marriages.
