While smoking is often associated with lung cancer, smoking's harmful effects extend far beyond the respiratory system. Growing evidence suggests a strong link between smoking and prostate cancer. To understand the link between smoking and prostate cancer, the Onlymyhealth team spoke to Dr Niti Raizada, Senior Director, Medical Oncology, Fortis Hospital BG Road, Bangalore.
Understanding Prostate Cancer
“Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men worldwide, and India alone accounts for more than 60% of the prostate cancer burden from South-Central Asia,” said Dr Raizada. According to the Tata Memorial Centre, this accounts for more than 34 thousand incidences and upwards of 16 thousand deaths due to prostate cancer in India.
“The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in males that is placed below the bladder and in front of the rectum,” explained Dr Raizada.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms
Dr Raizada warned that men need to be aware of the symptoms and the risk factors for early detection and treatment. According to the National Health Service, this is because the symptoms of prostate cancer are not apparent until the cancer has grown large enough to press on the urethra, which is the tube that carries the urine from the bladder and out of the penis.
Hence, the most common symptoms of prostate cancer are frequent urination or difficulty peeing. “When the prostate gland enlarges it pushes on the urethra, and urine passage may be hindered leading to a weak urine stream, difficulty starting, or incomplete emptying,” corroborated Dr Raizada.
She added, “If you face trouble urinating, decreased force in the stream of urine, or urgent need to pee or blood in the urine or semen, it could indicate that you have prostate cancer.”
Also Read: How Each Prostate Cancer Stage Differs From The Other
How Does Smoking Cause Prostate Cancer?
Dr Raizada underscored that the exact cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood, and only risk factors that increase the chances of developing this disease have been identified. According to a research article titled, ‘Cigarette Smoking and Risk of Prostate Cancer in Middle-Aged Men,’ chronic smokers have a 40–60% higher risk of prostate cancer relative to nonsmokers.
Dr Raizada said, “Smokers who develop the disease have a 42% higher risk of death from prostate cancer when compared to non-smokers.”
While the exact mechanisms aren't fully understood, research published in the journal ‘Tobacco Induced Diseases’ has identified several potential ways smoking contributes to prostate cancer risk:
- Hormonal Changes: Smoking can alter hormone levels in the body, including testosterone and oestrogen. These hormonal imbalances can create a conducive environment for prostate cell growth and potential malignancy.
- Toxic Exposure: Cigarette smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals, including carcinogens. These toxins can damage prostate cells, leading to genetic mutations and the development of cancer.
- Inflammation: Chronic smoking triggers persistent inflammation throughout the body, including the prostate. Inflammation is associated with an increased risk of various cancers, including prostate cancer.
Also Read: Are Younger People At Risk Of Prostate Cancer?
Risk Factors Of Prostate Cancer
Dr Raizada listed some other risk factors of prostate cancer, that may be exacerbated by lifestyle choices like a smoking habit:
- Age: After age 50, the risk of developing prostate cancer increases rapidly. It peaks at age 70–74, declining slightly thereafter.
- Family History: The chance of getting prostate cancer is increased by 2.1–2.8 when one has a single first-degree relative who has the disease. The risk increases by 3.5 times when there are two affected relatives.
- Obesity And Weight: Obesity and excess weight don't appear to cause prostate cancer, but they can increase the risk of prostate cancer recurring, development of obesity-related comorbidities, exacerbated treatment-related adverse effects, earlier progression of the disease, and higher all-cause and prostate cancer-specific mortality.
- Hormone Levels: Men with high levels of testosterone concentration have an increased risk of prostate cancer. Low levels of circulating estradiol, which is responsible for modulating libido and erectile function, may represent an additional risk factor.
- Chemical exposures: According to research, Arsenic or pesticide exposure may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Men need to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms associated with prostate cancer to take proactive steps towards their health. Dr Raizada concluded that early detection through regular screenings and seeking medical attention for any symptoms can greatly increase the chances of successful treatment and survival.