A risk factor is anything that can increase the likelihood of developing a disease or condition. Some of these factors can be changed, such as dietary habits or smoking, while others cannot, such as family history or age.
However, having these risk factors does not mean you will definitely get the disease; it only means you are at a higher risk compared to those without them.
Here, we discuss the risk factors of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate gland start to grow out of control.
Knowing the Risk Factors
The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known; however, the following are the key risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease:
Age
The risk of prostate cancer increases significantly with age. It is rare in men under 40. The risk rises rapidly after age 50. Nearly 6 in 10 cases are diagnosed in men over 65 years old.
Race and Ethnicity
Men of African descent are at a 76% higher risk of developing prostate cancer than white men and are 2.2 times more likely to die from it. They are also often diagnosed at a younger age.
Prostate cancer is less common among men of Asian descent. The reasons for these racial differences are not yet fully understood.
Family History
Prostate cancer can run in families. A man has twice the risk if his father or brother had prostate cancer—this risk is even higher if the brother was affected.
Having two or more relatives with prostate cancer increases the risk fourfold. The risk is greater if a family member was diagnosed before age 65.
Families with a strong history of cancers like breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer also have a higher risk of prostate cancer in men.
Gene Changes
Inherited genetic mutations can increase prostate cancer risk in a small percentage of cases.
Mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes—known for increasing breast and ovarian cancer risk in women—also elevate prostate cancer risk in men, especially BRCA2.
Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer) increases the risk of several cancers, including prostate cancer.
Obesity
Some studies suggest that obese men are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with aggressive or advanced prostate cancer.
Diet
The role of diet in prostate cancer is not fully understood, but several factors have been studied:
- High consumption of dairy products and calcium (from food or supplements) may increase risk.
- Diets high in fat have been linked to a higher risk in some studies.
Smoking
Some studies have linked smoking to a slightly increased risk of death from prostate cancer, though more research is needed to confirm this.
Prostate Cancer Prevention: Ways to Reduce Your Risk
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, maintaining overall good health can help lower your risk. Evidence suggests that a diet low in fat and rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk.
Have a Low-Fat Diet
A low-fat diet helps control weight, which may reduce prostate cancer risk.
- Limit red meat (pork, lamb) and processed meats.
- Reduce added fats during cooking.
- Choose lean cuts of meat and low-fat dairy products.
Have a Variety of Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and nutrients that may lower cancer risk.
- Aim for at least five portions daily.
- Eating more produce can also reduce cravings for unhealthy, high-fat foods.
Reduce Consumption of Dairy Products
Studies suggest that high intake of dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt) is linked to increased prostate cancer risk.
- Consider alternatives like almond milk or soy drinks.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Obesity (BMI ≥ 30) is associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer.
- Lose weight through a calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise.
- Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Keep Physically Active
Regular exercise is linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer.
- Exercise helps maintain or lose weight, reducing cancer risk.
- It also lowers the risk of heart disease and other cancers.
- Aim for most days of the week—brisk walking, swimming, or strength training.