Indeed, there is currently strong evidence supporting the existence of a clear association between alterations in the metabolic and hormonal status (e.g. changes in circulating insulin, IGF1 and/or GH levels, obesity, diabetes) and a higher risk of developing, and an increased aggressiveness of, certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer 61, 62, 63. The gene discussed is IGF1; the disease is obesity due to melanocortin 4 receptor deficiency.