Obesity Linked to Prostate Cancer D...(Nov. 12 online issue of the journal Can...),Health

It remains unclear why there might be a link between obesity and death rates from prostate cancer. It's possible that metabolism rates in heavy men might make the cancer more aggressive, Smith said, or obesity could render treatments less effective.

Dr. Martha K. Terris, a professor of urology at the Medical College of Georgia, who's familiar with the study findings, said hormone balance could be another factor. "Obesity changes the proportion of estrogen and testosterone in the blood, and this change may impact on the cancer behavior," she said.

Terris added that "obese individuals generally eat more high-fat diets with less fruits and vegetables that could contain key vitamins that help control cancer growth."

For now, Smith said, "the part we can't know is whether improvements in lifestyle intervention after prostate cancer diagnosis would improve outcomes."

Still, it would be wise for doctors to tell their patients about the apparent link between weight and prostate cancer death rates, Smith said. "This may be a teachable moment that prompts a discussion about general health considerations," he said.

In a related study published in Cancer, University of Michigan researchers found that families coping with prostate cancer reported improved quality of life from a structured support program integrated into the patients cancer management. The study, led by Dr. Laurel Northouse, found that patients and their spouses who participated in a five-session home counseling program reported significant improvement in such areas as symptom management, hope, uncertainty and the couples' communication.

More information

For advice on losing weight, visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

SOURCES: Matthew R. Smith, M.D
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