The Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer can be treated successfully if detected early when it is still localized. Some forms of prostate cancer are aggressive and spread quickly, making it difficult to treat successfully. The symptoms include pain during urination, the urge to urinate more often, blood in the urine, and much more.

Screening for prostate cancer remains controversial. Not every man with the disease should undergo testing before discussing their screening options and preferences, benefits and risks with their doctor.

Prostate cancer is slow growing and may present symptoms later when it has already progressed. It is essential to understand the risk factors and warning signs of this disease. The risk of prostate cancer increases as men get older.

Here are the risk factors for prostate cancer:

·         Race – Studies revealed that men of African descent are at high risk and are likely to die from prostate cancer.

·         Family history – Having a brother or father with prostate cancer increases your odds for developing the cancer. The risk grows higher if you have several relatives who have been diagnosed with the disease. This is most especially if they were diagnosed while young.

·         Diet and lifestyle – Research studies have measured the effects of diet on prostate health and its link to prostate cancer. It is believed that the high-fat diet that includes large amounts of animal fat can elevate the risk of developing prostate cancer. A low-fat diet full of fruits, vegetables, and fiber may help to prevent the disease.

·         Age– Therisk for prostate cancer increases with age. The prostate problems experienced by men as they age include prostatitis, prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. It’s possible that one can have multiple conditions at the same time.

Some of the risk factors for prostate cancer cannot be avoided. But other risk factors can be reduced by making lifestyle changes and observing healthy habits.