Could some cases of prostate cancer be traced to infection? Scientists have discovered that a sexually transmitted microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis can infect the lining of the prostate gland and cause considerable inflammation. Men may be infected without noticeable symptoms, however.
The organism produces a protein that resembles an immune system marker. In response to this compound, prostate cells proliferate. Those that have become cancerous turn invasive. This could explain the association previous researchers have noted between aggressive prostate cancer and the sexually transmitted disease trichomoniasis.
For cutting-edge information about the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, you may wish to listen to our one-hour radio interview with two of the country’s leading experts on this disease.
