The gene, called DAB2IP, is usually involved in preventing tumors from forming, but new research has shown that some men carry a form of the gene that differs slightly from normal.

In men with this variant form, the genes protective mechanism appears to go awry. The study, which involved the genetic screening of over 3,000 men, showed that those with the gene carried an increased risk of nearly 36 percent of developing advanced prostate cancer. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland surrounding part of the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis.

When cancer develops, cells in the gland grow out of control.

The disease is serious, but usually grows slowly. However, in aggressive versions the cancer can spread to other parts of the body, and be life threatening. Prostate cancer is rare in men under 50, with most cases occurring in those aged over 70. There is around a one in 14 lifetime risk of developing the disease. Men with a relative suffering from prostate cancer double their risk of the disease.

If the relative was diagnosed before the age of 60, this risk quadruples.

Because there is currently no way of telling whether a person has or will have the aggressive version, both forms are treated the same with painful radiotherapy, or surgery that might cause impotence or incontinence. Another option is to monitor the cancer continuously, though this risks it spreading.

Source: Daily Mail; London (UK). Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. Powered by YellowBrix.

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