Prevalence of Prostate Cancer and its Risk Factors: Results of the First Phase of Shahedieh Cohort Study in Yazd Province, Iran

Objective:

 Prostate Cancer is the most common and the second leading cause of death from cancer among men in the world. The present study aims to investigate the prevalence of prostate cancer and its risk factors in men participated in the Shahedieh cohort study in Yazd Province, Iran.

Methods:

 This is a descriptive cross-sectional study that was conducted using the data from the first phase of Shahedieh Cohort study in Yazd province. The study population consists of all men aged 35-70 years in the cities of Shahedieh, Ashkezar and Zarch who were included in the study by a census method (n=4729). The study variables included demographic information (age, marital status, and employment status), lifestyle variables (Body mass index, physical activity, nutrition, smoking, water and edible oil consumption) and family history of prostate cancer. Data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 16 software by using descriptive statistics (frequency, Mean±SD).

Results:

 Of 4729 men, 3 had a history of prostate cancer. Examination of risk factors showed that the frequency of smoking was high, and a high percentage of men was overweight and obese (69.8%). The results showed the diet modification in patients with prostate cancer, since their average consumption of red meat and eggs was lower and their average consumption of white meat (chicken and fish) and fruits was higher compared to healthy individuals.

Conclusion :

There is a high frequency of smoking, overweight and obesity in men aged 35-70 years in Yazd province. Since these risk factors can be modified, it is recommended to develop educational programs to prevent prostate cancer.