Prostate cancer linked to common STI

“Prostate cancer could be a sexually transmitted disease caused by a common infection,” The Independent reports. Researchers have found evidence of a link between the cancer and trichomoniasis – a common parasite that is passed on during unprotected sexual contact. A laboratory study found the parasite produces a protein similar to a human protein that is necessary for the immune system to function. However, the human protein had also been shown to be involved in the growth of cancers, as it causes inflammation. This is of potential concern as trichomoniasis causes no noticeable symptoms in up to half of men. These men may then be subject to chronic inflammation without realising it. The study found that in the laboratory setting, the protein from the parasite acted on human blood cells and benign and cancerous prostate cells in a similar way to the human protein. The researchers conclude that infection with the parasite, in combination with other factors, might trigger inflammatory pathways that could lead to cancer growth. It is important to note that this early study did not involve any men with benign enlargement of the prostate or prostate cancer. Further research will be required to investigate whether there is a clear link between trichomoniasis and prostate cancer. It could be the case that trichomoniasis is just one of a series of risk factors rather than a single definitive cause.   Where did the story come from? The study was carried out by researchers fro...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Cancer Source Type: news