Relationship between the mechanisms of atherosclerosis and prostate cancer: literature review

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease and cancer remain the leading causes of hospitalization and death worldwide. Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most common malignant diseases in men. Epidemiological studies have shown that the majority of patients with PC die not from cancer but from cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary heart disease. In recent years, several studies have examined the relationship between atherosclerosis and PC, suggesting a stronger relationship than previously thought. Processing characteristics of the development and progression of both diseases include dysregulation of cell proliferation, oxidative stress, genetic changes, and inflammation. Despite conflicting data on the role of high cholesterol levels in the development of PC over the past decade, numerous studies have confirmed its importance in PC development and progression; meanwhile, statins have confirmed their value in reducing the risk of disease development and progression. The presented data confirm the need for a thorough assessment of cardiovascular risk factors, the presence of concomitant cardiovascular diseases in patients with PC, and the use of methods for the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with atherosclerosis to reduce cardiovascular risk and inhibit PC progression.

Keywords

• atherosclerosis
• cardiovascular disease
• coronary heart disease
• prostate cancer