Leptin increases prostate cancer aggressiveness.

Recent studies indicate that adipose tissue and adipocytokines might affect the development of prostate cancer (PCa). Leptin would have a stimulating effect on prostate cancer cells by inducing promotion and progression, whereas adiponectin would have a protective effect. The aim of this study was to determine the relation between body composition, leptin, and adiponectin levels with the prevalence and aggressiveness of PCa in men of Mendoza, Argentina. Seventy volunteers between 50 and 80 years (35 healthy men as control group and 35 with PCa) were selected. The PCa group was subclassified according to the Gleason Score (GS). Digital rectal examination, transrectal ultrasound, and prostatic biopsy were performed; PSA, testosterone, leptin, and adiponectin levels were determined; and a nutritional interview including anthropometric measurements and a food frequency questionnaire was carried out. Statistical analysis was performed by Student t test, ANOVA I, and Bonferroni (p < 0.05). Body mass index and percentage of body fat mass were not statistically different between PCa and control groups. However, body fat mass was higher in subjects with more aggressive tumors (p = 0.032). No differences were observed regarding leptin levels between the groups. Nevertheless, leptin levels were higher in subjects with high GS (p < 0.001). Adiponectin levels showed no statistical differences regarding the presence and aggressiveness of the tumor (p = 0.131). Finally, consumption and nutrient intake did not differ in the studied groups. In conclusion, body composition and leptin are related to the PCa aggressiveness but not with its prevalence.

[Body mass index and diet affect prostate cancer development]. / El indice de masa corporal y la dieta afectan el desarrollo del cancer de próstata.

INTRODUCTION: Prostate cancer (CaP) is one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. There is evidence that obesity and inadequate eating habits may promote CaP development. OBJECTIVE: To analyze and compare the body mass index (BMI) and the food intake, especially fats and antioxidants, among subjects with CaP and those free of disease as a control group. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A sample of 40 men between 50 and 80 years old were selected for the study: 20 with CaP and 20 healthy men as control group. All volunteers underwent a digital rectal examination, prostate specific antigen level, ultrasound and transrectal prostate biopsy, and a nutritional interview where a dietary history and different anthropometric measurements were made. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student T test for independent samples (p < 0.05). RESULTS: BMI in the subjects with CaP was higher than in controls (29.8 kg/m2 vs. 27.96 kg/m2, p = 0.13) but not statistically significant. However, there was a direct correlation between BMI and tumor aggressiveness (r = 0.79, P < 0.001). Total, saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat intake was significantly higher in subjects with CaP; while omega3 fatty acids, vitamin C and lycopene intake was significantly lower than in controls (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A healthy weight and a diet low in total fat, saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat and rich in n3 fatty acids, vitamin C and lycopene is associated with a lower risk of CaP.