Age: You’re more likely to get Prostate Enlargement (BPH) and prostate cancer as you get older. Both conditions are rare in men under age 40. As men age, their risk for prostate cancer increases considerably. About 60% of prostate cancer is diagnosed in men over age 65. That is why talking with your doctor about PSA screening for prostate cancer as you enter middle age is so important.
Your race: Scientific research shows that men of African descent are about 75% more likely to develop prostate cancer compared with white men, and over twice as likely to die from the disease. It is also important to realize that not every Black man will get prostate cancer, and that prostate cancer has a better chance of being managed effectively and cured if it is detected early.
Your family history: You are more likely to get Prostate Enlargement (BPH) or prostate cancer if a male relative has it. If your father or brother had prostate cancer, your risk of getting the disease more than doubles Genes for disease can run in families. Of all the major cancers, prostate cancer is the most heritable: 58% of prostate cancer is driven by genetic factors. Men who have a close relative with prostate cancer may be twice as likely to develop the disease. Both of these conditions run in families.
Your weight: Being obese increases your risk for BPH. It’s not clear how weight influences prostate cancer, but research has shown a correlation between increased BMI and incidence of cancer, including prostate cancer.
Other risk factors for prostate cancer diagnosis and worse outcomes are social and environmental factors—particularly a diet that is low in vegetables and high in processed meat and saturated fat—and lifestyle. Men who are overweight or obese are at greater risk of developing an aggressive form of prostate cancer.
Your other health conditions: Having diabetes or heart disease could make you more likely to get Prostate Enlargement (BPH). Myths about Prostate Enlargement/ Cancer and Non-Risks Factors. Certain things that were once considered risk factors for prostate cancer are now believed to have no connection to the disease.
Sexual Activity: High levels of sexual activity or frequent ejaculation has been rumored to increase prostate cancer risk. This is untrue. In fact, studies have shown that men who report more frequent ejaculations may have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer.
Vasectomy: Having a vasectomy was originally thought to increase a man’s risk, but this has since been disproved. Having a vasectomy doesn’t appear to increase your risk.
Alcohol: There is no known direct link between alcohol and prostate cancer risk.
