A Case Control Study on Prostate Cancer in Delhi

Prostate cancer is one of the first five leading site of cancers in Delhi. The incidence rate is higher in North India compared to South India and it is rapidly increasing. A population based case-control study on prostate cases was therefore carried out in Delhi to identify potential risk factors. Cases were each matched with two controls. Past smoking and current alcohol consumption significantly increased the risk of prostate cancer. No statistically significant association was found with family history of cancer or prostate cancer. The risk of prostate cancer declined with increasing dietary consumption of tea, citrus fruits and melon. A statistically significant marginal increase in the odds ratio was observed with the consumption of eggs, fish and sunflower oil. Though an increased risk of prostate cancer was evident among vasectomised men, the association was not statistically significant.