Endocrine-disrupting chemicals as prostate carcinogens
Mariana Feijó1, Tiago M A Carvalho2, Lara R S Fonseca1
1RISE-Health, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.
Nature Reviews. Urology
|May 16, 2025
Summary
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) interfere with hormone function, potentially increasing risks for metabolic disorders, reproductive issues, and cancers. The prostate, being hormone-dependent, is a likely target for EDC-induced carcinogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are widespread environmental contaminants affecting human health.
- EDCs interfere with the endocrine system, potentially causing metabolic disorders, reproductive defects, and cancers.
- Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality in men, with mechanisms for aggressive forms not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in prostate carcinogenesis.
- To investigate how EDCs may contribute to the development of prostate cancer, including aggressive forms.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on EDC exposure and endocrine disruption.
- Analysis of the hormonal regulation of the prostate and its susceptibility to exogenous influences.
- Examination of potential mechanisms linking EDC exposure to prostate cancer development.
Main Results:
- The prostate's dependence on androgen and estrogenic regulation makes it vulnerable to EDCs.
- Ubiquitous environmental and product-based EDCs pose a risk for endocrine-related health effects.
- EDCs are implicated as potential contributors to prostate carcinogenesis through various modes of action.
Conclusions:
- Endocrine-disrupting chemicals represent a significant environmental risk factor for prostate cancer.
- Understanding EDC mechanisms is crucial for preventing and treating prostate cancer, especially castration-resistant forms.
- Further research into EDC sources and actions is needed to elucidate their role in prostate carcinogenesis.
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