Body mass index and diet affect prostate cancer development

Introduction: Prostate cancer (CaP) is one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. There is evidence that obesity and inadequate eating habits may promote CaP development. Objective: To analyze and compare the body mass index (BMI) and the food intake, especially fats and antioxidants, among subjects with CaP and those free of disease as a control group. Material and Methods: A sample of 40 men between 50 and 80 years old were selected for the study: 20 with CaP and 20 healthy men as control group. All volunteers underwent a digital rectal examination, prostate specific antigen level, ultrasound and transrectal prostate biopsy, and a nutritional interview where a dietary history and different anthropometric measurements were made. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student T test for independent samples (p <0.05). Results: BMI in the subjects with CaP was higher than in controls (29.8 kg/m(2) vs. 27.96 kg/m(2), p = 0.13) but not statistically significant. However, there was a direct correlation between BMI and tumor aggressiveness (r = 0.79, P <0.001). Total, saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat intake was significantly higher in subjects with CaP; while (omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin C and lycopene intake was significantly lower than in controls (p <0.05). Conclusions: A healthy weight and a diet low in total fat, saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat and rich in omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin C and lycopene is associated with a lower risk of CaP.