Men, did you know that prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting males and that it is the second most commonly occurring cancer among men in the US? Prostate cancer claimed the lives of over 29,000 men in 2013 alone and these numbers continue to rise.
The cells that mutate and become prostate cancer are sensitive to certain proteins called “androgen receptors” and the good news is, there are new potential ways to inhibit these proteins. Although studies have only been conducted successfully on mice, this is a great step forward for the health of men. The hope within this finding is that the growth of prostate cancer cells might be halted. Drugs are used to isolate and inhibit the androgen receptor proteins which could halt malignant growth. The only down-side with drug-based therapies is the potential for drug-resistant cell growth.
For your best health and to ensure the care of your prostate, please make sure you receive prostate exams and make note of any changes within your body that are associated with prostate function. Always contact your physician with any concerns and do not ignore the subtle signs your body gives to you. Stay healthy, stay well informed and stay on top of your prostate health.
Source
- UT Southwestern Medical Center. “Target for shutting down growth of prostate cancer cells identified.” ScienceDaily. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/03/140306095125.htm (accessed March 18, 2014).