BACKGROUND:

The ratio of digit lengths is fixed in utero, and may be a proxy indicator for prenatal testosterone levels.

METHODS:

We analysed the right-hand pattern and prostate cancer risk in 1524 prostate cancer cases and 3044 population-based controls.

RESULTS:

Compared with index finger shorter than ring finger (low 2D : 4D), men with index finger longer than ring finger (high 2D : 4D) showed a negative association, suggesting a protective effect with a 33% risk reduction (odds ratio (OR) 0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57-0.80). Risk reduction was even greater (87%) in age group <60 (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.09-0.21).

CONCLUSION:

Pattern of finger lengths may be a simple marker of prostate cancer risk, with length of 2D greater than 4D suggestive of lower risk.