5-Alpha-Reductase Inhibitors for Prostate Cancer Chemoprevention: An Updated Cochrane Systematic Review
October 2010
in “
BJUI
”
Studysummary This study found that 5‐α‐reductase inhibitors reduce the risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer in men who undergo regular screening, but increase the risk of sexual and erectile dysfunction.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The 2010 Cochrane systematic review found that 5-α-reductase inhibitors (5-a-RIs) like finasteride and dutasteride reduce the risk of prostate cancer diagnosis by 25% to 26% in men undergoing regular screening, with a greater absolute risk reduction for cancers detected for-cause than for overall prostate cancers. The review included eight studies, with a focus on the PCPT and REDUCE trials, involving men with a mean age of 64 and a mean PSA level of 3.1 ng/mL. However, these medications were associated with increased sexual and erectile dysfunction. The review highlighted a consistent risk reduction in men with baseline PSA levels below 4.0 ng/mL, but not in those with higher levels. There was no significant difference in high-grade tumors or mortality rates between 5-a-RIs and placebo. The document emphasized the need for further research to assess the long-term impact on morbidity and mortality, and the effects of 5-a-RIs on PSA levels and prostate biopsy indications.
