European Urology

Abstract

Background

In two large randomized controlled trials, 5α-reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) were shown to prevent prostate cancer. No prior work had shown the effect of 5-ARIs on those already diagnosed with low-risk prostate cancer.

Objective

Our aim was to determine the effect of 5-ARIs on pathologic progression in men on active surveillance.

Design, setting, and participants

We conducted a single-institution retrospective cohort study comparing men taking a 5-ARI versus no 5-ARI while on active surveillance for prostate cancer.

Measurements

Pathologic progression was evaluated and defined as Gleason score >6, maximum core involvement >50%, or more than three cores positive on a follow-up prostate biopsy. Kaplan-Meier analyses were conducted along with multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression modeling for predictors of pathologic progression.

Results and limitations

A total of 288 men on active surveillance met the inclusion criteria. The median follow-up was 38.5 mo (interquartile range: 23.6–59.4) with 93 men (32%) experiencing pathologic progression and 96 men (33%) abandoning active surveillance. Men taking a 5-ARI experienced a lower rate of pathologic progression (18.6% vs 36.7%; p = 0.004) and were less likely to abandon active surveillance (20% vs 37.6%; p = 0.006). On multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis, lack of 5-ARI use was most strongly associated with pathologic progression (hazard ratio: 2.91; 95% confidence interval, 1.5–5.6). The main study limitation was the retrospective design and variable duration of 5-ARI therapy.

Conclusions

The 5-ARIs were associated with a significantly lower rate of pathologic progression and abandonment of active surveillance.

Take Home Message

Results showed that 5α-reductase inhibitors reduce pathologic progression and progression to active treatment in men with low-risk prostate cancer on active surveillance. These medications should be considered in active surveillance protocols.