The exact cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood. A combination of risk factors—including age, geographical location, and family history—are known to increase a person's risk. Researchers are also exploring potential links between the development of prostate cancer and factors such as chemical exposure, body weight, and dietary habits.
Prostate cancer occurs when healthy cells in the prostate mutate and begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The prostate is a small gland situated below the bladder and in front of the rectum, and it plays a key role in producing semen.
Known Risk Factors
Cancer begins when mutations in a cell’s DNA cause it to multiply abnormally. These cells may form tumors, invade surrounding tissue, and spread to distant parts of the body. In prostate cancer, this process starts in the prostate gland, a walnut-sized organ in the male reproductive system.
Although the precise trigger for prostate cancer is unknown, several well-established risk factors significantly increase a person’s chances of developing the disease.
age
Prostate cancer is rarely diagnosed in people under 40. The risk increases substantially after age 50, with the majority of cases occurring in men over 65.
geographical location
Prostate cancer is more prevalent in certain parts of the world, especially North America, Northern and Western Europe, Australia, the Caribbean, and South Africa. These disparities may be influenced by differences in screening availability, lifestyle, and diet.
family history
Having a first-degree relative (father, brother, or son) with prostate cancer significantly increases your personal risk. A family history of related cancers, such as breast or ovarian cancer, may also be relevant due to shared genetic factors.
Possible Risk Factors
In addition to the known risk factors, researchers are studying other contributors that may influence the likelihood of developing prostate cancer. These potential factors include nutrition, weight, chemical exposure, and chronic inflammation.
diet
Some studies suggest that diets high in red and processed meats, dairy, and saturated fats may increase the risk of aggressive prostate cancer. On the other hand, plant-based diets rich in vegetables and fruits may offer a protective effect, although the evidence remains inconclusive.
body weight
While obesity may not directly cause prostate cancer, it is associated with more severe forms of the disease. Obese individuals may also have a higher risk of dying from prostate cancer. This could be due to changes in hormone levels and inflammation linked to excess body fat.
chemical exposures
Exposure to certain carcinogenic chemicals has been linked to prostate cancer. For instance, firefighters are exposed to combustion by-products, while farmers may come into contact with pesticides and fertilizers. Both occupations have been associated with increased risk.
prostatitis
Chronic prostatitis, or long-term inflammation of the prostate, may raise the risk of developing cancer in the gland. Some researchers believe that ongoing inflammation may damage cells and create an environment conducive to cancer formation.
Is Prostate Cancer Hereditary?
A proportion of prostate cancer cases are considered hereditary and are associated with inherited gene mutations. This type is referred to as familial prostate cancer.
brca1 and brca2
Mutations in these genes, which are also linked to breast and ovarian cancer, can increase prostate cancer risk. Men with a family history of these cancers may have an elevated risk, even if no prostate cancer has been diagnosed among male relatives.
hoxb13
This gene has been linked to an increased risk of early-onset and aggressive prostate cancer. Mutations in HOXB13 are relatively rare but notable in hereditary cases.
lynch syndrome
Also called hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer, Lynch syndrome raises the risk of various cancers, including prostate. It is a genetic condition passed down through families.
rnasel
This tumor-suppressing gene plays a role in regulating abnormal cell growth. When mutations interfere with its function, the risk of prostate cancer may increase.
If your family has a history of prostate, breast, colorectal, or ovarian cancer, consult your healthcare provider about genetic testing and personalized risk assessment.
Who Gets Prostate Cancer?
Approximately one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lives. While anyone with a prostate can develop the condition, certain groups face a higher risk.
age
Prostate cancer is primarily a disease of older men. About 60% of cases are diagnosed in individuals aged 65 and over.
ethnicity and sex
Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and are also at higher risk of being diagnosed with aggressive forms at a younger age. They also have a higher mortality rate. In contrast, Asian American and Hispanic men have a lower incidence of prostate cancer than non-Hispanic White men. The reasons may include a mix of genetics, healthcare access, and socioeconomic factors.
family history
Having a close relative with prostate cancer significantly raises your risk—by as much as two to three times compared to those without a family history.
A Quick Review
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the prostate gland. Though the exact cause is unclear, numerous risk factors have been identified.
Age, family history, and geographic location are established contributors. Other influences—such as diet, obesity, chemical exposure, and inflammation—may also play a role. Additionally, inherited gene mutations are responsible for a portion of cases.
Men concerned about their risk—especially those with a family history of prostate or related cancers—should speak with their healthcare provider. Genetic testing and personalized screening plans can help detect and manage the disease more effectively.
