New research suggests that exposure to chemicals called PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which can be found in plastic food containers and nonstick cookware, among other places, can make prostate cancer grow three times more quickly than cells that haven't been exposed to these dangerous chemicals.

Researchers found that the disease developed the most quickly in mice exposed to PFAS that were fed a high-fat diet.

"However, some people have higher than normal population because of occupational exposure, living in areas that have contaminated water, or consuming more fast food or food contaminated with PFAS.

If you want to switch up your eating habits to avoid this risk, one popular alternative to the typical Western-style diet is the Mediterranean diet, which has the added bonus of being associated with a wide range of health benefits, including boosting cognitive function, lessening your risk of developing depression, and even improving erectile performance!

For more on potentially dangerous substances to avoid, check out The 10 Most Toxic Ingredients Lurking In Fast Food.