Incidental Prostate Cancer: Incidence and Mortality
Author Information
Author(s): Andrèn O, Garmo H, Mucci L, Andersson S-O, Johansson J-E, Fall K
Primary Institution: Örebro University Hospital
Hypothesis
Are incidental prostate cancers biologically different from other prostate cancers diagnosed by needle biopsy?
Conclusion
A significant proportion of men diagnosed with incidental prostate cancer died from their disease, challenging the notion that it is non-lethal.
Supporting Evidence
- 26.6% of men with incidental prostate cancer died from their disease.
- The 10-year prostate cancer-specific mortality was lower for incidental cases compared to non-incidental cases.
- The incidence of incidental prostate cancer peaked in 1991 and has since declined.
Takeaway
Some men who find out they have prostate cancer by accident can still get very sick and die from it, even though many people thought it wasn't dangerous.
Methodology
The study used nationwide data from Swedish health registers to identify men diagnosed with incidental prostate cancer and followed them for mortality outcomes.
Potential Biases
Minimal selection bias due to the comprehensive nature of healthcare in Sweden.
Limitations
The study relies on the quality of available data from health registers, which may have inaccuracies.
Participant Demographics
Men who underwent TURP or OAE for benign prostatic hyperplasia in Sweden from 1970 to 2003.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 26.0–27.2
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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