Why are some men more prone to prostate cancer?

Research published today in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals a man's risk of developing prostate cancer is significantly associated with 16 genetic mutations.

American and Swedish scientists identified variants in five chromosomal regions. Men with one of these genetic mutations were modestly at risk. Those who inherit more than four and had a family history of prostate cancer, were 400 per cent more at risk. Nearly three thousand prostate cancer patients, and over 1700 men -- without the disease -- were tested. Healthy men also tested positive for all of the risky genes -- but it doesn't mean they'll develop prostate cancer. This is important to note because researchers have yet to distinguish which cancers are terminal and which ones men can outlive. Scientists are still encouraged by these findings and hope to develop a blood test that tests a genetic link to prostate cancer. However these tests could mistakenly classify men as high risk. This study is only the first step towards defining a link between genes and prostate cancer.

Who is at risk of developing prostate cancer?

One in eight Canadian men will develop the disease in their lifetime. On average-- 83 men will die of prostate cancer every week. It is the most common cancer in Canadian men.

Here are some of the risk factors:

  • age: the number of cases of prostate cancer jump in men over sixty.
  • race: black men are twice as likely than white men.
  • people with a family history.
  • sedentary lifestyle

How can men offset their risk?

  • Early detection offers the best chance for cure. Once a year, men over 50, or those with a family history of prostate cancer should:
  • Get a prostate specific antigen test--or psa. This is the only blood test for prostate cancer.
  • Get a rectal exam, one of the best ways to screen for the disease.
  • Have regular exercise
  • Eat a diet low in fat and processed foods, with more fruits and vegetables. New research also suggests vitamin d can help make prostate cancer cells more "normal".