for eMaxHealth(NC)-Prostate cancer is the number one cancer threat to the lives and health of men. It is the most common cancer, and the second most deadly after lung cancer. An increasing number of men are expected to develop the disease in their lifetime, with 19,000 being diagnosed every year.
Good news on Prostate Cancer
Although there are no definitively proven preventive remedies, research into prostate cancer prevention is active with several important clinical trials underway and one, the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT), recently completed. Results from the PCPT showed that a drug, finasteride 5 mg (Proscar), had a positive effect in preventing or delaying the onset of the cancer. Preliminary data suggest that in healthy men, 55 years or older, finasteride 5 mg may reduce the relative risk of developing prostate cancer by 25 per cent.
In addition, the SELECT trial involving more than 32,000 men is examining the effectiveness of the mineral selenium and vitamin E, alone or in combination, to prevent prostate cancer. Results from this trial are expected in the coming years.
In the meantime, we know that men who modify certain aspects of their lifestyle may lower their risk of developing prostate cancer. Important components include regular exercise, moderate alcohol consumption, no smoking and a diet that is low in fat and high in grains, vegetables and fruit.
Certain factors that can increase the risk of prostate cancer include age, environment and family history, but steps can be taken to decrease the risk. Every man over the age of 40 should speak with their doctor about assessing his risk of developing prostate cancer.
- News Canada
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