Steroid Hormones as Modulators of Emotional Regulation in Male Urogenital Cancers

Abstract Purpose: Tumors develop within an organism operating in a specific social and physical environment. Cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) are involved in both emotional regulation and the tumor progression. Methods: This study assessed the quality of life of urogenital cancer male patients. It was hypothesized that patients with a better quality of life would have higher levels of the DHEA/cortisol ratios. Results: We found that the quality of life was positively related to DHEA, but not cortisol levels. Negative mood changes were related to lower levels of DHEA. Logistic regression of the predictors of metastases indicated three main independent factors involved: DHEA, age, and cortisol. In other words, the higher the DHEA levels in comparison to cortisol levels, controlling for age, the lower the probability of metastases. Conclusion: Our results appear to support the hypothesis that emotional dysregulation mediated by DHEA/cortisol activity is a key factor in cancer development.