PFAS & prostate cancer: The effects on prostate stem-progenitor cells

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in the U.S. According to the American Cancer Society, 1 out of 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at one point in their lifetime.

The precise causes of prostate cancer remain unknown, but growing evidence suggests a new and likely culprit: per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

PFAS is a class of over 15,000 chemical compounds that are also associated with a long list of health risks, including certain types of cancers. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that PFAS may trigger cancer development in the prostate by targeting a specific group of cells known as stem-progenitor cells.

PFAS target prostate stem-progenitor cells - study

Prostate stem-progenitor cells are responsible for maintaining and repairing the prostate tissue. They also play an essential role in keeping a healthy and functioning prostate, but their ability to grow and self-renew may go awry. In turn, they can be a potential source of cancer cells.

A 2023 study from a group of researchers led by the University of Illinois revealed that PFAS can disrupt the function of prostate stem-progenitor cells, most of which could contribute to higher risks of developing prostate cancer, like:

• Disrupting cellular functions: These chemicals may lead to uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation, a potential precursor of cancer.
• Altering cell metabolism: Exposure to PFAS can cause changes in the cell's metabolism, such as increasing glycine and serine metabolism as well as glucose metabolism.
• Changes in gene activity: PFAS can alter gene expression in prostate stem-progenitor cells and can possibly trigger these specialized cells towards a pre-malignant or pre-cancerous state.
• Increased tumor growth: By analyzing animal models, the study also revealed that daily exposure to PFOS in mice can significantly increase the development of human prostate cancer xenografts or tumors grown from human cancer cells.

Prostate cancer: Diagnosis and risk groups

Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland, which produces fluid for semen, undergo uncontrolled and abnormal growth. They often start as a lump or tumor. Doctors generally diagnose prostate cancer using any of the following common approaches:

• Biopsy
• Digital rectal exam
• Imaging
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test

With research pointing to a disturbing connection between constant exposure to PFAS and prostate cancer risk, several groups may be more vulnerable compared to the rest of the population. These include members of the military, both active and retired, as well as residents living inside or near army bases, considered one of the most significant sources of PFAS contamination in the country.

Get help for your PFAS-related prostate cancer claim from Atraxia Law

Living with prostate cancer is never easy. Beyond the physical challenges, it can also take a toll on your finances and your emotions. That's why we recommend reaching out to our team at Atraxia Law if you're looking for help.

We have supported countless victims of toxic exposure to navigate the claims process quickly and efficiently. To learn more about how we can assist you, contact us today for a free case evaluation, and let us guide you every step of the way.