In America, prostate cancer is the most common cancer (non-skin) that affects men. As many as one out of every six men has prostate cancer. It is estimated that 192,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009 alone. 27,000 men will die because of it. In spite of the number of cases that occur each year, there is still much that isn’t understood about prostate cancer, its causes and its cures. A new study may change that.
Recently, a study published in PNAS, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, seems to indicate that prostate cancer may be linked to a virus. For the first time there is hope that a vaccine may be possible.
Previously, scientists and researchers were unsure what caused prostate cancer. They understood certain risk factors, but that did not always translate into a diagnosis of prostate cancer. The elderly, those with poor diets and genetic predisposition seemed to indicate a higher chance of contracting the disease. It now appears that men infected by the virus XMRV (xenotropic murine leukemia virus) also have an increased chance of developing the disease.
The information comes from animal studies. Mice have been tested in regards to certain bone cancers including leukemia. Human based studies had not yet been conducted when PNAS realized that over 27\% of sampled <"http://www.gkmen.com/fitness-and-health/men-health-advice/better-prospects-longer-prostate-treatment"> prostate cancer suffers were infected by XMRV. Scientist hypothesize that men are infected by the virus through sexual contact.
Practically speaking, this discovery could change the way that men are screened for prostate cancer. It may also mean a vaccine is possible, much like the HPV Vaccine that was developed for the prevention of cervical cancer.
These developments may take years to become a reality for men faced with the possibility of prostate cancer, so it is vital all men recognize the possible symptoms. Difficult or frequent urination, difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection and pain in the upper legs or lower back may be an indication that there is a problem. Other typical symptoms include blood in the semen or urine, painful or difficult ejaculation and a weak urine flow.
Until more specific guidelines are created that may include early testing for XMRV infections and a possible vaccine, the best course of action is routine prostate cancer screening by a qualified physician. Two main tests are used to determine if prostate cancer is present. The first is the DRE (Digital Rectal Exam) in which the prostate is physically examined by a doctor. The second is the PSA Blood Test. This test determines the level of PSA (a protein produced by the prostate) in the blood. The higher the level, the more likely it is a problem exists. Men should be screened beginning at age 50.
This study does point to some exciting possibilities. In the next few years, it can be expected that further research into the virus will take place, including determining how XMRV is transmitted. This information will allow scientists to begin work on a vaccine and hopefully protect men against this potentially fatal disease.
