Risk Factors That Contribute To Prostate Cancer
Read to find out factors that increase the risk of prostate cancer

Medical researchers have identified a number of factors, the most common being age, that increase the risk of prostate cancer. Other factors are family history, race, diet, physical inactivity, nationality, and vasectomy. It is important to note that these factors are still being debated and researched. Moreover, even avoiding certain risk factors won’t entirely eliminate the chances of getting prostate cancer.

Some inherited genes may increase the risk for a small number of cases. Prostate cancer may be hereditary, as a person whose father or brother has had prostate cancer runs twice the risk of contracting the disease than a man with no family history of prostate cancer. The risk is even greater for men who have had other relatives afflicted with the disease, especially if these relatives contracted prostate cancer at a young age.

Race is an important factor in prostate cancer risk. Caucasians seem less prone to the disease, compared to African-Americans who account for almost 70% percent of prostate cancer cases among Americans. African-Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease at an advanced stage. This makes them are more likely to die of prostate cancer than Caucasians.

Nationality plays a large role in the risk factors as well. Prostate cancer is not as common in Africa, Central and South America, and Asia, as it is in North America and the northwestern part of Europe.

It is still unknown exactly how nationality and race factor into the risks of prostate cancer.

Studies suggest that diet is another risk factor. There are increased chances of developing prostate cancer among men with a diet high in red meat and high-fat dairy products and few vegetables and fruits. Doctors thus recommend a diet with less red meat and high-fat dairy products, and more fruits or vegetables to reduce risk due to dietary factors.

The consumption of certain substances including vitamins D and E, the mineral selenium, and lycopenes, may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Lycopenes are found in vegetables such as tomatoes and fruits such as watermelon. The effect of these substances on the risk of prostate cancer is a topic of interest and research for many scientists.

Physical activity, or the lack of it, is another factor. Doctors recommend regular physical activity and the maintenance of a healthy weight as a means of reducing the risk of contracting the disease. Lack of physical activity may contribute to the development of prostate cancer.

A man who has had a vasectomy may run increased risk of contracting prostate cancer. Researchers have observed what appears to be an increased risk of prostate cancer among men who have had a vasectomy. Some studies even suggest a higher risk among men who undergo a vasectomy before the age of 35. It is important to note that this risk is inconclusive and needs further research.