# Presence of Trace Metals in the Biological Samples of Prostate Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review of Case-Control Studies

## TL;DR

This review finds that prostate cancer patients often have higher cadmium and lower zinc and selenium levels compared to healthy men, suggesting a possible link to metal exposure and nutrient deficiencies.

## Contribution

The study systematically reviews case-control evidence linking trace metal levels to prostate cancer, highlighting cadmium's potential role and zinc/selenium deficiencies.

## Key findings

- Prostate cancer patients have higher cadmium levels compared to healthy controls.
- Zinc and selenium concentrations are lower in prostate cancer patients.
- Arsenic, mercury, nickel, and lead levels show no significant association with prostate cancer.

## Abstract

Studies on trace metals and prostate cancer are examined in this review. It was discovered that, in comparison to healthy males, men with prostate cancer frequently have greater levels of cadmium (Cd) and lower levels of zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se). Lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg) did not exhibit obvious connections. Overall, the results point to a possible link between prostate cancer and cadmium exposure, as well as zinc and selenium deficits; however, further research is required to address study limitations and other affecting factors.

Background/Objective: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the leading cause of death in the ageing male population across the globe, and trace metals have garnered much attention due to their sometimes-dual role in cellular mechanisms, as such contribute to the development and progression of prostate cancer. Methods: This review consolidates the results of case-control studies that investigated the concentrations of certain trace metals—Arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) in various biological samples. Results: There are decreased concentrations of Se and Zn and increased Cd concentrations in samples of PCa patients when compared to healthy controls. As, Hg, Ni, and Pb concentrations have proven to be insignificant. Conclusions: There are other variables to consider and limitations that need to be investigated in studies of this nature; however, the results have been consistent in that increased exposure to toxic metals such as Cd, along with a deficiency in protective essential nutrients like Zn and Se, tends to produce a prostatic environment.