Men who drink red wine may reduce their risk of prostate cancer, according to a new study published in the International Journal of Cancer.
The prostate is a gland found only in men. The prostate produces a thick white fluid called semen, which is expelled during ejaculation. Prostate cancer is a disease where cells of the prostate grow in an uncontrolled way. The mass of extra cells forms the cancer. Prostate cancer occurs in men mostly over the age of 50.
The study showed that men who drank more than four glasses of red wine a week were 50 percent less likely to develop prostate cancer. For every glass of red wine drank each week, the risk of developing prostate cancer decreased by six percent.
In addition, the study showed that the men who drank more than four glasses of wine a week were 60 percent less likely to develop aggressive types of prostate cancer. Aggressive types of prostate cancer grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body, making them harder to treat successfully.
Red wine contains an antioxidant called resveratrol, which is not found in other types of alcohol.
Antioxidants are thought to 'mop up' free radical molecules in the body. Free radical molecules are produced by the body's normal chemical reactions, and are thought to attack and damage body cells. Antioxidants are also found in many fruits and vegetables.
The researchers think that resveratrol may protect the prostate and be responsible for decreasing the risk of prostate cancer.
Research has shown that drinking moderate amounts of alcohol can have health benefits but it does not encourage men to increase the amount of red wine they drink.
Source : bupa.co.uk
cause you never know
04/21/06 @ 08:51