Does physical activity play a role in the prevention of prostate cancer?

Abstract

This paper explores the association of physical activity in the prevention of prostate cancer. While no definite mechanisms have been identified for an inverse relation between physical activity and prostate cancer incidence several plausible mechanisms have been postulated. These include the modulation of testosterone levels; decreased obesity; modulation of immune function; increase in vitamin D levels; and decreased release of neurotrophic factors. Epidemiologic studies were conducted in Canada China Finland Norway Sweden Taiwan Turkey and the US to examine the association of physical activity with prostate cancer risk. Findings of the study reveal inconsistencies due to misclassification of physical activity; amount/intensity of physical activity; timing of physical activity; control for confounders; and differential effects in subgroups. Thus further research is needed to clarify whether physical activity plays a role in the prevention of prostate cancer. However the public should still be encouraged to be physically active because of the potential for other health benefits including a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.