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No Dodging Prostate Cancer With Vitamin D
May 28, 2008 -- A new study shows that higher levels of vitamin D in the blood are not associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer.
Researchers say previous studies in the lab have suggested that high doses of vitamin D may cut prostate cancer risk. But statistical studies that looked for specifically what causes prostate cancer and whether vitamin D is helpful have been inconclusive, they say.
In this study, researchers from the National Cancer Institute compared 749 men who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer to a control group of 781 men who didn't have the disease but who were similarly matched up in terms of age and other factors.
The study was conducted alongside a cancer screening trial.
The researchers found no "statistically significant" difference when it came to whether higher blood levels of vitamin D reduced the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Researchers did find a slight trend that the disease was more aggressive with higher concentrations of vitamin D in the blood. Study authors urge more research on that front.
In an editorial that accompanies the study results, researchers say that vitamin D deficiency is emerging as a "public health concern."
Sunshine Vitamin
Vitamin D is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. However, people with darker skin and the elderly may not produce enough. Other sources of vitamin D include certain foods, especially foods fortified with vitamin D, such as milk and cereals.
The study was carried out by Jiyoun Ahn, PhD, and Richard Hayes, DDS, PhD, of the National Cancer Institute.
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Indication
Uroxatral® (alfuzosin HCl 10 mg extended-release tablets) is an alpha1-blocker for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH.
Important Safety Information
Do not take UROXATRAL if you have liver problems or if you are taking antifungal drugs like ketoconazole or itraconazole, or HIV drugs like ritonavir.
UROXATRAL can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when starting treatment. This may lead to fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do any dangerous activity until you know how UROXATRAL will affect you. This is especially important if you already have a problem with low blood pressure or take medicines to treat high blood pressure. There may be an increased risk of low blood pressure and fainting when taking UROXATRAL in combination with blood pressure medication or nitrates, or erectile dysfunction medication.
If considering cataract surgery (clouding of the eyes), tell your eye surgeon that you are currently taking UROXATRAL or have previously been treated with an alpha-blocker.
Before taking UROXATRAL, tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
Also, tell your doctor if you or any family member(s) have or take medications for a rare heart condition known as congenital prolongation of the QT interval.
BPH and prostate cancer can cause the same symptoms. However, UROXATRAL is not a treatment for prostate cancer.
The most common side effects with UROXATRAL are dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and tiredness.
Please see UROXATRAL full prescribing information.
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