Neighbourhood social deprivation and risk of prostate cancer – British Journal of Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men across the world. According to the Global Cancer Statistics 2020 report, there were over 1.4 million new cases and over 375,000 deaths from prostate cancer in 2020 alone. In Canada, the Canadian Cancer Statistics 2021 report estimated that there would be over 23,000 new cases and over 4,000 deaths from prostate cancer this year.
Research has shown that there is a link between social factors such as education, income, and occupation and the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, recent studies have also suggested that the neighbourhood in which a person lives can also play a role in their susceptibility to the disease.
In a study published in the British Journal of Cancer, researchers found that neighbourhood social deprivation is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. The study, which used data from the Ontario Cancer Registry, examined over 420,000 men aged 40-74 years and found that those living in the most deprived neighbourhoods had a 12% higher risk of developing prostate cancer than those living in the least deprived neighbourhoods.
This finding supports previous research that has found an association between social deprivation and other cancers such as breast and lung cancer. It is believed that the stress, poor nutrition, and lack of access to healthcare that are often associated with living in deprived neighbourhoods may contribute to the development of cancer.
It is important to note that while this study found an association between neighbourhood social deprivation and prostate cancer risk, it does not prove causation. Further research is needed to determine the underlying mechanisms behind this association.
Related Facts:
– Other studies have also examined the link between social factors and prostate cancer. For example, research has found that lower income and education levels are associated with a higher risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.
– A study published in Cancer Causes & Control found that neighbourhood income was a predictor of prostate cancer incidence in Montreal, Quebec. The study found that men living in neighbourhoods with lower average incomes had a higher risk of developing prostate cancer than those living in more affluent neighbourhoods.
– Marital status has also been linked to prostate cancer risk. A pooled analysis of 12 case-control studies found that married men had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer than unmarried men.
Key Takeaway:
Neighbourhood social deprivation may be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. While further research is needed to determine the underlying mechanisms behind this association, it highlights the need for public health interventions to address social inequalities and improve access to healthcare and healthy lifestyles in deprived neighbourhoods.
Conclusion:
The link between social factors and cancer risk is complex and multifaceted. While research has shown that neighbourhood social deprivation may contribute to the development of prostate cancer, it is important to also consider other social determinants such as income, education, and occupation. Addressing these social inequalities is crucial to reducing the burden of prostate cancer and improving overall public health.
