Risk Factors For Prostate Cancer
The following factors could put you at risk for prostate cancer:
- Age – men who are 40 or over with a family history of prostate cancer and African Americans are at risk. For other men without a family history, men 50 and over are at risk. Most prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over 65, but it is becoming more common in men 55-65.
- Family history – Your risk of developing prostate cancer is double if your father, brother, or close male blood relative has or had the disease. Also, men with the breast cancer gene, BRCA1 and BRCA2, have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
- Race – African American men have the highest rate of prostate cancer in the world, at least twice as high as other men.
- Diet – Eating a diet that’s low in fiber, and high in fat and red meat, may increase the risk for prostate cancer.
Family history – Your risk of developing prostate cancer is double if your father, brother, or close male blood relative has or had the disease. Also, men with the breast cancer gene, BRCA1 and BRCA2, have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
Download this free Family Medical Tree to help track prostate cancer and other health issues in your family.
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Please note: Men’s Health Network does not provide medical services. Rather, this information is provided to encourage you to begin a knowledgeable dialogue with your physician. Check with your healthcare provider about your need for specific health screenings.