Humanity has been dealing with many types of cancer, some more aggressive than others. While some cancers can affect both men and women, others affect only one of the two genders. A new study conducted by researchers from the Cleveland Clinic found that gut microbes associated with aggressive prostate cancer are affected by dietary intake and habits.
Over 700 men participated in the study
One of the study researchers, Nina Sharifi M.D, explained during an interview that data from over 700 patients enrolled in the National Cancer Institute’s Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial has been analyzed. A diet-associated gut molecule has been detected, and the data revealed that men with high levels of that particular molecule have a higher risk of developing lethal prostate cancer.
The results are eye-opening as it might be possible to prevent the risk of developing prostate cancer by detecting this particular gut molecule and adjusting the diet. Those who had high levels of phenylacetylglutamine (PAGIn) were 2-3 times more likely to receive a lethal prostate cancer diagnosis. This particular metabolite and elevated levels of choline and betaine can increase the risk of prostate cancer. These nutrients can be found in several products such as high-fat dairy, red meat, egg yolks, etc.
PAGIn is also associated with cardiovascular diseases
This metabolite has been associated with a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, new research might help develop better prevention methods, such as annual screenings meant to detect levels of certain diet-associated gut microbes. After the screening, doctors could recommend dietary changes that could help prevent lethal prostate cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
According to the American Cancer Society, one man in 8 receives a prostatic cancer diagnosis. The statistics are not encouraging for men. As they start aging and depending on their descent, some are more prone than others to develop lethal prostatic cancer. Prevention and early detection are the best weapons against this aggressive type of cancer.