Prostate cancer occurs when certain cells in the prostate gland become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The disease causes severe pain and discomfort, so it’s important to know the top risk factors for prostate cancer to facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment. One can also make more informed and healthy lifestyle choices to lower the risk of developing it.
Listed below are some of the top risk factors for prostate cancer:
Age
Age is obviously one of the top risk factors for prostate cancer. The risk elevates after the age of 40, while the chances of developing the disease are significantly high post the age of 60. It is rarely found in males below the age of 40, so men should get tested at regular intervals as they grow old.
Family history
Genetics and family history are also among the top risk factors for prostate cancer. Men with an immediate relative like their father or a brother who has/had prostate cancer are twice as likely to get diagnosed with the condition than others. Like many other hormonal and metabolic diseases, genes have a significant amount of contribution to the development of prostate cancer.
Diet and obesity
A diet high in saturated fats elevates the risk of prostate cancer. Obesity is associated with many problems, and it also adds to the risk of prostate cancer. So, men approaching their 50s should watch their diet and lose the extra pounds, especially if there’s a history of the condition in their family.
High testosterone levels
The high testosterone levels among men is another top risk factors for prostate cancer. Men required to go through testosterone therapy are more likely to develop prostate cancer later in life because the increase in testosterone levels stimulates the growth of the prostate gland itself.
Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PIN)
This condition causes the prostate gland cells to look a bit abnormal when examined through a microscope. This is neither too alarming nor too uncommon. About two in five men are diagnosed with PIN after the age of 50, and the condition does not manifest any signs. The chances of prostate cancer are higher in men who have been diagnosed with PIN. So, men with this condition should be extra careful about their dietary and lifestyle choices to maintain the health of their prostate.
Knowing the top risk factors for prostate cancer can help men make better choices to reduce the lifestyle-related risk factors. Additionally, it helps them identify the signs better and facilitates early diagnosis and timely medical attention and treatment.
