Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common cancer worldwide. Locally, PCa ranks fifth. Recent studies suggest a potential link between cancer development, oxidative stress, and persistent inflammation. The sexually transmitted parasite Trichomonas vaginalis has a clear pathogenic effect on females and has been linked to cervical cancer and reproductive problems in women. However, its impact on male diseases, particularly PCa, remains under investigation. This paper looked at the link between T. vaginalis infection and PCa, focusing on oxidative stress (Malondialdehyde, MDA) as a possible mechanism. A case-control research included 88 participants–58 PCa and 30 healthy controls from Babylon governorate, Iraq. ELISA was used to determine T. vaginalis seropositivity for IgG and IgM antibodies. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring the MDA level. Statistical analysis comprised Kruskal-Wallis tests, Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher’s exact test, and Chi-square. PCa patients showed much greater IgG seropositivity (25.86%) than controls (6.66%; p= 0.04). IgM revealed no notable correlation (p= 0.55). Although treatment type had no major impact on IgG status (p = 0.69), among cancer patients, IgG prevalence was highest in those receiving chemotherapy (34.48%). PCa patients showed significantly higher MDA levels (5.687 ± 3.276 nmol/mL) as oxidative stress marker than controls (2.056±1.890 nmol/mL; p<0.01). Patients on immunotherapy had the lowest MDA values (2.374±0.833 nmol/mL; but non-significantly p=0.097 compared radiotherapy/chemotherapy. In conclusion, PCa is associated with chronic T. vaginalis infection, which may be caused by oxidative stress or may be a triggering factor for the cancer.
Keywords: Malondialdehyde, Oxidative Stress, Prostate Cancer, Trichomonas Vaginalis.