Chemoprevention of Prostate Carcinoma - A Plea

The document discussed the challenges of diagnosing and treating prostate cancer, particularly due to its high prevalence, occurrence in older age, slow progression, and associated costs. It highlighted that chemoprevention could address some of these issues, with two randomized, controlled studies demonstrating the effectiveness of 5α-reductase inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride in preventing prostate cancer. Additionally, there was growing evidence that other compounds, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), NSAIDs, and statins, might also be effective. The review examined the potential risks and benefits of chemoprevention, emphasizing the need for open and unbiased investigation into these options, including their health economic implications.