The epidemiology of prostate cancer -: with a focus on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Prostate cancer is a highly prevalent condition. Recent research has suggested several chemopreventive agents, including 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors, aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), statins, and seleruium and vitamin E supplements. This article provides an over-view of prostate cancer epidemiology, with a special focus on the relationships of aspirin and other NSAIDs on prostate cancer risk. The risks and benefits of these drugs for other major diseases and conditions of older men, including cardiovascular disease, other cancers, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease, are discussed. NSAIDs, especially aspirin, have been associated with small to moderate consistent reductions in risk of prostate cancer incidence from observational studies, with slightly stronger effects for advanced stage disease. Further research is warranted.