Newswise — In a study first presented during the Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Urological Association (AUA) in May 2008 and published in the September 15 issue of the journal Cancer, researchers examined prostate cancer incidence and disease characteristics in those exposed to Agent Orange compared to those who were not exposed. They found that twice as many men exposed to Agent Orange were identified with prostate cancer. Agent Orange-exposed men were also diagnosed younger and were more likely to present with aggressive or metastatic disease. Other prostate cancer risk factors " race, body-mass index (BMI) and smoking " were not statistically different between the two groups.
This increased evidence suggests that exposure to Agent Orange should be considered a risk factor for developing prostate cancer, similar to African-American heritage or a family history of the disease.
About Agent OrangeAgent Orange is a combination of two synthetic compounds known to be contaminated with the dioxin tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin (TCDD) during the manufacturing process. Named for the color of the barrel in which it was stored, Agent Orange was one of many broad-leaf defoliants used in Vietnam to destroy enemy ground cover. It is estimated that more than 20 million gallons of the chemicals, also known as "rainbow herbicides," were used between 1962 and 1971; approximately half of the herbicides were Agent Orange. In 1997, the International Agency for Research on Cancer re-classified TCDD as a Group 1 carcinogen, a classification that includes arsenic, asbestos and gamma radiation.
Prostate Cancer DiagnosisCurrently, digital rectal examination (DRE) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests are used to detect prostate cancer.
DRE: The physician inserts a gloved finger into the rectum and examines the prostate gland, noting any abnormalities in size, contour or consistency.
PSA Test: The PSA test is usually performed in addition to DRE and increases the likelihood of prostate cancer detection. The test measures the level of PSA, a substance produced only by the prostate, in the bloodstream.
Treatment OptionsProstate cancer can be treated in a number of ways, including surgery, radiation and hormonal therapy. Some cases of prostate cancer may not need immediate treatment; active surveillance may be a viable option for these patients.
When should a man start regular prostate cancer screening?Both prostate specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal examination (DRE) should be offered annually, beginning at age 50 years, to men who have a life expectancy of at least 10 years. Men at high risk (those with a family history of prostate cancer or African American men) should consider beginning testing at an earlier age.
SUGGESTED TOPICS ON PROSTATE CANCERThe AUA can assist in developing related story topics on prostate cancer, such as: "¢ Living with prostate cancer"¢ New techniques and technology for prostate cancer treatments"¢ Interpreting your PSA test"¢ Female partners are proven motivators: convince your man to get a PSA test
The American Urological Association (AUA) can provide information, statistics, and expert commentary on the subject of prostate cancer. Please contact Lacey Holt at 410-689-4054 to schedule an interview with one of the following experts: "¢ J. Brantley Thrasher, MD, FACS, Professor and William L. Valk Chair, Department of Urology and the co-director of Operative Services at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, KS."¢ Christopher Amling, MD, Professor and Director, Division of Urology, University of Alabama at Birmingham.
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