Causes of Prostate Cancer: What Increases the Risk?
Understanding the causes of prostate cancer is essential for awareness and prevention. While the exact cause is unknown, factors like age, family history, genetics, and lifestyle choices can increase the risk. Identifying these risk factors can help in making informed decisions about screening and early detection.
The exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown.
According to doctors, Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate develop changes in their DNA. The DNA of a cell contains the instructions that tell it what to do. The changes cause the cells to divide and grow at a faster rate than normal cells. When other cells die, abnormal cells continue to live.
The abnormal cells come together and form a tumor, which can spread and invade nearby tissue. Some abnormal cells can break away and spread(metastasize) to other parts of the body over time.
- Old Age: As you get older, your chances of developing prostate cancer increase. After the age of 50, it becomes more common.
- Race: Black people have a higher risk of prostate cancer than people of other races for unknown reasons. Prostate cancer is also more likely to be aggressive or advanced in Black men.
- Family history: If a blood relative has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, such as a parent, sibling, or child, your risk may be increased. Additionally, if you have a strong family history of breast cancer or a gene that increases the risk of breast cancer (BRCA1 or BRCA2), your risk of prostate cancer may be higher.
- Obesity: Obese people may have a higher risk of prostate cancer than people who are considered to be of normal weight, though studies have yielded mixed results. Obese people are more likely to have cancer that is more aggressive and that returns after treatment.
8 Things You Can Do to Lower Your Risk for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer risk can be decreased by:
A variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should be consumed. Numerous vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables can benefit your health.
It has not yet been proven beyond a reasonable doubt that diet can prevent prostate cancer. However, eating a balanced diet that includes a wide variety of fruits and vegetables can enhance your general health.
Eat foods high in vitamins and minerals to keep your body’s vitamin levels at healthy levels. Though there is no evidence that supplements can lower your risk of developing prostate cancer.
Exercise enhances your general health, supports weight maintenance, and elevates your mood. On most days of the week, try to exercise. Start out slowly if you’ve never exercised before, and gradually increase your daily exercise time.
If your weight is healthy right now, make an effort to keep it that way by eating well and working out most days of the week. Add more exercise and cut back on your daily calorie intake if you need to lose weight. Consult your doctor for assistance in developing a plan for safe weight loss. Maintaining a healthy weight will work as a prevention step.
Lowering your risk of developing cancer is just one benefit of quitting smoking. And if you do drink, do so sparingly. According to some studies, red wine has antioxidant qualities that may be good for your health.
Vitamin D intake is typically insufficient in most people. It can aid in preventing many different conditions, including prostate cancer. Fish, mushrooms, cow’s milk, soy milk, orange juice, cereals, and oatmeal are some foods high in vitamin D.
Many experts advise getting 10 minutes of daily sun exposure (without sunscreen) because it is a better and more accessible source of vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements are frequently advised by doctors.
According to studies, men who ejaculate more frequently (with or without a sexual partner) are up to two-thirds less likely to be given a prostate cancer diagnosis.
Although research is still being done, some experts believe that ejaculation helps the body get rid of toxins and other things that might otherwise cause inflammation.
If your risk of developing prostate cancer is very high, you and your doctor may discuss taking medications or undergoing other treatments to lower that risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. What are the main causes of prostate cancer?
A. The main causes of prostate cancer include aging, family history, genetic mutations, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors like diet and smoking.
Q2. Can lifestyle choices increase the risk of prostate cancer?
A. Yes, unhealthy lifestyle choices such as a high-fat diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity can increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Q3. Is prostate cancer hereditary?
A. Yes, prostate cancer can be hereditary. Men with a family history of prostate or breast cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease.
Next in Prostate Cancer
Author Bio:
Dr. Yashashree Joshi – MBBS, MD (Philippines)
Dr. Yashashree Joshi, MD, is a globally-trained oncologist with a robust academic background and extensive experience in pioneering cancer treatments. Dedicated to patient-centered care, she continually integrates the latest advancements in oncology to provide her patients with innovative and personalized treatment plans.
Content Medically Reviewed By MedicoExperts Editorial & Clinically Review Board
