Risk Factors
Research has shown that men with certain risk factors can be more likely than others to develop prostate cancer. Having more than one risk factor doesn't mean you will get prostate cancer, but rather you are at greater risk of getting the disease.
Age: The chance of getting prostate cancer increases with age. In fact, age is the main risk factor for prostate cancer. Men over the age of 45 have a higher risk of getting prostate cancer than younger men. The risk continues to increase as men age.
Family History: Prostate cancer risk is about 2 to 3 times higher for men whose fathers or brothers have had the disease. For example, risk is about 10 times higher for a man who has 3 immediate family members with prostate cancer. The younger a man is when he has prostate cancer, the greater the risk for his male family members. Prostate cancer risk also appears to be slightly higher for men whose mothers or sisters have had breast cancer.
Race: Prostate cancer is more common in African American men than in white men, including Hispanic white men. It is less common in Asian and American Indian men.
Diet: Some studies suggest that men who eat a diet high in animal fat or meat may be at increased risk for prostate cancer. Men who eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may have a lower risk.
"Understanding Prostate Changes". National Institute of Health, 2004.
