$Unique_ID{BRK02472}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is Prostate Cancer More Common In Sexually Active Men?}
$Subject{prostate cancer sexual life hypertrophy prostatic disease prostatitis
bacteria intercourse cancers genitourinary system neoplasm neoplasms sex
lifestyle lifestyles infection infections bacterial}
$Volume{J-15,B-15}
$Log{
Types of Urinary Tract Infections*0007101.scf
Predisposing Factors for Urinary Tract Infections*0007102.scf
Cancer of the Prostate*0007601.scf
Benign Hypertrophy of the Prostate*0007602.scf}

Copyright (c) 1992,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is Prostate Cancer More Common In Sexually Active Men?


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QUESTION:  I have frequently heard that prostate cancer is much more frequent
in men who have had a very active sexual life, and is almost never seen in
individuals who have lived a more moderate life.  Recent events in our family
now make it very important for me to know if this is just another story or if
there is any scientific evidence that this is fact.  Can you tell me what your
research turns up?  Thank you.

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ANSWER:  Stories of this nature made the rounds at one time when the
possibility that prostate cancer was related to infectious disease was still
being considered.  It was thought that a man who had a good deal of sexual
activity, particularly at an early age and with multiple partners, was a
higher risk for the later development of prostate cancer than other less
aggressive individuals.  This idea is no longer considered true as the
incidence of prostate cancer is the same in both celibate and sexually active
men.  Infection is not considered as a cause of either cancer, or the more
common benign hypertrophy (excessive growth) of the prostate, which occurs
frequently in men past the age of 60.
     There is one prostatic disease that is related to sexual activity
however, and it is an infection called prostatitis.  This can be caused by
bacteria transmitted during intercourse.  Symptoms include fever and chills,
pain during urination and bloody urine, severe enough to make anyone seek the
medical attention that is required.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.