ABSTRACT
Another epidemiologic factor for carcinoma of prostate is a positive family history in first-and seconddegree relatives. Genetic studies have detected a defect on the short arm of chromosome 8 that is associated with prostate cancer. African-American men have a higher incidence and mortality rate from carcinoma of the prostate than whites. They also develop the tumor at an earlier age. Recent reports also indicate an increased frequency of prostate cancer among relatives of women with breast cancer. Other factors include geography, prior vasectomy, and a history of venereal disease. The role of geography is related to vitamin D, which has potent antitumor properties. Interestingly, eunuchs do not get prostate cancer (5).
