Being male it must be made clear that all men are at risk for developing prostate cancer within his lifetime. Typically one in every 6 males will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. By the age of 80 however, nearly 80 percent of men will have developed prostate cancer cells in their prostate. Countless research hours have been spent with the sole objective of discovering the cause of the disease. While no conclusive, outright causes have been discovered, these studies have given us a significant amount of knowledge about what the most prominent risk factors are for prostate cancer. Factors that contribute to that risk age, race, family history and diet.

Age:

Numerous studies have shown that the greatest risk factor for prostate cancer is age. In white males their risk increases after the age of 50 in contrast black males whose risk increases after the age of 40. Two-thirds of all diagnosed cases of prostate cancer are in men aged 65 years or older.

Race:

Studies among racially diverse groups have shown that prostate cancer is most prominent amongst African-American males. In fact prostate cancer occurs more often in African-American men than any other ethnicity. It’s been suggested that environmental conditions or exposure to infectious agents among the varying ethnicities may be a contributing factor. These theories however have been inconclusive and have yet to be fully comprehended.

Family History:

Men who have had family members diagnosed with prostate cancer are considered at being high risk. According to the American Cancer Society, that risk increases significantly for men who have had a brother that was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Research has also found that certain inherited genes can increase the risk although testing for those specific genes has yet to be developed.

Unfortunately there isn’t much you can do about the aforementioned risk factors as medicine has yet to be that advanced. A lifestyle change in regards to your current diet and engaging in regular physical activity are great steps towards reducing your risk factor. Annual screening should be started for those men over 40 years of age and you should speak with your physician about any concerns or questions you may have.