Prostate Cancer — Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of
prostate cancer is not known. In general, cancer is caused by mutations (changes) in the
DNA of cells that cause those cells to grow and divide rapidly.
DNA is inherited from your parents, and about 5% to 10% of all prostate cancers are due to mutations that were passed along at conception. If a member of your immediate family has had prostate cancer, you are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
Other factors that are considered in a person's risk profile for prostate cancer include:
- Age: the risk of developing prostate cancer increases significantly after age 50.
- Race: prostate cancer occurs 61% more often in African-American men than in Caucasian men.
- Nationality: prostate cancer rates are higher in North America and northwest Europe and lower in Asia, Africa, and Central and South America.
- Diet: a diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in fat is considered a good way to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
- Physical activity: keeping physically active and at a healthy weight may reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
