Most cancers are due to many risk factors, but sometimes prostate cancer develops in men who have none of the risk factors described below. The exact causes of prostate cancer are still unknown. Numerous studies are underway in the world and we will surely know more in the coming years. However, research has shed light on certain risk factors, the first three of which are established.

1. Age

Your risk of developing prostate cancer increases as you age, especially after 50 years old.

2. Family history

You are 2 to 5 times more at risk if a parent (father, brother, uncle, son) is affected, if he has been diagnosed before age 65, and if there are breast, ovarian, pancreas, or colon cancers, among others, in the family.

3. Food

Although the consumption of red meat is now an established risk factor, there is a possible link between the consumption of fat, especially animal fat or processed meat (bacon, sausage, etc.) and a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

4. Racial origin

The rate of prostate cancer is lower in men of Asian origin, while men of African or Caribbean origin are more likely to develop the disease and die from it. They are also more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age than Caucasian men.

5. Genetic mutations

You are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer if you inherit the BRCA2 gene mutation. This genetic mutation also increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in women. Genetic mutations represent very few cases.

6. Overweight or obesity

Studies show that men who are overweight or obese are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer that is advanced or has already spread (metastases) to other parts of the body.

7. Vitamin D deficiency

Studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency in men may be associated with an increased risk of developing more aggressive prostate cancer and an increased risk of recurrence. The majority of Quebecers, especially men over 50, lack vitamin D, particularly in winter.

8. Various environmental factors

Scientific evidence suggests that occupational exposure to chemical or toxic substances – in the case of firefighters – or pesticides – in the case of farmers – could increase the risk of prostate cancer. This risk may be even greater for men who have a family history of prostate cancer.

Take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease with our expert lectures, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you.

Do you have any questions or concerns? Above all, do not hesitate. Contact us at 1 855 899-2873 to discuss with a nurse specializing in uro-oncology. It’s simple and free, like all our services.

Pages of our site that might interest you
How to reduce your risk
Prostate Cancer – Signs and Symptoms
What are the screening tests and is it for you

Articles that might interest you
Supplements: myths vs reality vs your wallet
D: vitamin or hormone? And why is it important?

Sources et references
Risk Factors Prostate Cancer – cancer.ca
Prostate Cancer – Understand the disease and its treatments; Fred Saad, MD, FRCSC and Michael McCormack, MD, FRCSC; 4th & 5th editions

Written by PROCURE. © All rights reserved – 2020