Risk Factors
A risk factor is a characteristic, behavior, or condition that raises the possibility of developing a disease. Here are some factors known to increase your risk for prostate cancer:
Age
About two of every three men with prostate cancer are over the age of 65. Any man over the age of 50 is at an increased risk for prostate cancer.
Family History
Close relatives (such as a father or brother) of a man who has had prostate cancer are at an increased risk for the disease. There are certain genetic mutations that increase the risk of prostate cancer such as Lynch syndrome and BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.
Race/Ethnicity
African-Americans are more likely to develop prostate cancer than white men. Asian-Americans and Hispanic/Latino men are less likely.
Nationality
Prostate cancer is more common in North America, northwestern Europe, Australia, and the Caribbean Islands than in other parts of the world.
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Prostatitis
Prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate, may lead to an increased risk for prostate cancer.
Diet
Eating foods high in animal fats may increase your risk for prostate cancer. Eating fruits and vegetables may decrease this risk.
Chemicals
A few studies suggest a possible link between exposure to Agent Orange, a chemical used widely during the Vietnam War, and the risk of prostate cancer. The National Academy of Medicine considers there to be “limited/suggestive evidence” of a link between Agent Orange exposure and prostate cancer.
