Researchers have discovered a specific genetic mutation in men, that when present, indicates the increase in the chance of developing an aggressive form of prostate cancer by 60 percent. This gene affects twice as many men of African American descent than it does men of European descent, which could explain why the incidence of prostate cancer is higher in African American men. Until now, the only established risk factors for prostate cancer have been age, family history and ethnicity. Scientists at deCODE genetics -- with academic colleagues in Iceland, the US and Sweden -- made the discovery of the genetic mutation which will alert physicians to the need for more aggressive treatment of prostate cancer for men with the gene. The study is published online at Nature Genetics.Note: The contents of this blog are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or substitute for professional care. For medical emergencies, dial 911!
Prostate cancer gene discovered
Researchers have discovered a specific genetic mutation in men, that when present, indicates the increase in the chance of developing an aggressive form of prostate cancer by 60 percent. This gene affects twice as many men of African American descent than it does men of European descent, which could explain why the incidence of prostate cancer is higher in African American men. Until now, the only established risk factors for prostate cancer have been age, family history and ethnicity. Scientists at deCODE genetics -- with academic colleagues in Iceland, the US and Sweden -- made the discovery of the genetic mutation which will alert physicians to the need for more aggressive treatment of prostate cancer for men with the gene. The study is published online at Nature Genetics.
