Background/Objectives: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common malignancy among men worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. In 2022, over 1.4 million new cases were reported globally, with a prevalence exceeding 5 million. Despite its widespread occurrence, the incidence
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Background/Objectives: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common malignancy among men worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. In 2022, over 1.4 million new cases were reported globally, with a prevalence exceeding 5 million. Despite its widespread occurrence, the incidence and mortality of PCa show substantial geographic variation, influenced by factors such as genetic predisposition, healthcare access, lifestyle, and the adoption of screening programs. Regions with high PCa incidence, such as Northern America and Oceania, often have lower mortality rates due to early detection and advanced healthcare infrastructure. Conversely, areas with limited access to medical resources, such as parts of Africa and Latin America, experience higher mortality rates.
Methods: This review explores non-modifiable risk factors such as age, family history, and race, emphasizing their role in PCa development and progression.
Results: Modifiable factors, including diet, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and smoking, are also addressed, with evidence suggesting their potential in mitigating risk. Emerging data on medications such as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and statins, as well as dietary supplements such as vitamins D, indicate their potential for chemoprevention, though further research is needed to solidify these findings. Healthcare disparities, especially in low- and middle-income regions, highlight the need for equitable access to diagnostic tools and treatment options. The review underscores the significance of tailored screening approaches, particularly in high-risk populations, to optimize outcomes while minimizing overdiagnosis and overtreatment.
Conclusions: The review concludes with recommendations for future research, including the need for standardized screening protocols and the exploration of novel biomarkers for early detection. By synthesizing epidemiological data and current evidence, this review aims to enhance understanding of PCa risk factors, geographic disparities, and preventive strategies, ultimately contributing to improved global PCa management and outcomes.
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