Red wine may reduce prostate cancer risk

The results of a new study published in the January 1st issue of the International Journal of Cancer add to accumulating evidence that consumption of red wine may reduce the risk of prostate cancer in middle-aged men.

Dr. Janet L. Stanford, from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle and colleagues used data from a population-based, case-control study to assess the association between alcohol consumption and prostate cancer in 753 newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients between the ages of 40 and 64 years. A total of 703 frequency-matched controls were selected through random digit dialing.Cases and controls completed in-person interviews on lifetime alcohol consumption and other risk factors for prostate cancer. The team used logistic regression analysis to estimate odds ratios and evaluate significance.No clear associations were observed between the risk of prostate cancer and overall alcohol consumption.However, “each additional glass of red wine consumed per week showed a statistically significant 6% decrease in relative risk” of prostate cancer, they report. The researchers observed a significant linear trend of declining prostate cancer risk with increasing categories of red wine consumption.”Alcohol consumption is a modifiable lifestyle factor that may affect prostate cancer risk,” Dr. Stanford’s group noted. “Alcohol alters the hormonal milieu and contains chemical substances such as flavonoids (red wine), which may alter tumor cell growth.”The current findings “highlight the need for further research on the biological effects of polyphenol rich foods and beverages.”(Source: Int J Cancer 2005;113:133-140: Reuters Health: Oncolink: January 2005.)