Prostate Cancer and its Biggest Risk Factors
The entire male population is at risk of developing prostate issues. This is why its cancer ranks second among the common cancer types seen in men. So, it’s essential to know what can go wrong with the prostate gland. Some specific factors put some men at a higher risk of being affected by this condition. Let’s take a look at the ones that top the list.
- Age
With increasing age, the probability of developing this disease also increases. And this is especially the case once 50 is crossed. Statistically, it has been noted that 1 in 14 men aged 60 and above are detected with this condition, while the number of detections below the age of 40 remains 1 in 10,000.
- Race
Studies show that African-American men possess a greater possibility of developing prostate cancer. Moreover, the risk of being diagnosed late and facing more severe issues when diagnosed is greater. Their race and ethnicity also increase the chances of developing the disease at a younger age.
On the other hand, Asian-American and Hispanic men showed the least amount of chances of falling prey to this condition. How race or ethnicity contributes to increasing or decreasing the risk factor is yet to be found out.
- Family history
One of the commonly known factors that can lead to cancer is its genetic predisposition. The risk factor for being detected with prostate cancer significantly increases if one has a family history of this condition. This means if a person’s father or brother has been diagnosed with it, chances of developing the disease increase. Having a family history of multiple relatives being diagnosed increases the chances of a person developing the condition.
- Genetic mutations
Apart from having a family history of prostate cancer, certain other genetic factors can put you at a higher risk rate. These include conditions like hereditary breast and ovarian cancer as well as Lynch syndromes. It is advisable for people with predisposed genetic changes to get tested early to get timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Geography
The prevalence of prostate cancer differs depending on the location. People living in North America, Australia, Caribbean islands, northwestern Europe, have higher chances. One core reason for the greater risk among people in developed countries could be higher testing and detection rates. People living in Central or Southern American, Africa, and Asia have found to be at a lower risk.
- Diet
Regular consumption of high-fat dairy and red meat increases the likeability of being diagnosed with prostate cancer. High levels of which ingredient in this diet leads to increased risk are undetermined, so further studies are required. Additionally, people following diets rich in meat and dairy tend to rely less on vegetables and fruits decreasing their carb and fiber intake.