Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but many people don’t know much about what causes it or who’s most at risk. The prostate is a small gland below the bladder that helps produce semen. When the cells in this gland begin to grow abnormally, prostate cancer can develop.
Some prostate cancers grow so slowly that they never cause problems. Others can be more aggressive and spread beyond the prostate if not caught early. Knowing more about prostate cancer causes can help you make better decisions about your health. It can also help you understand the best time to start screening.
Prostate Cancer Causes
The exact cause of prostate cancer isn’t always straightforward.
However, several risk factors exist that increase the likelihood of developing it. Having a risk factor doesn’t guarantee you will get prostate cancer. It simply means you have a greater chance than someone without those factors. Some men with multiple risk factors never develop prostate cancer, while others with no known risk factors still get it.
What is the Biggest Risk Factor for Prostate Cancer?
Age is the most significant risk factor.
A man’s risk of developing prostate cancer increases as he gets older. It is rare in men under forty. It becomes more common after age fifty. The majority of cases are diagnosed in men over sixty-five. Since prostate cancer tends to grow slowly, older men are more likely to develop it without ever experiencing symptoms.
Other Prostate Cancer Risk Factors
Ethnicity and race
Prostate cancer is more common in Black men than in men of other ethnic backgrounds. It also tends to develop at a younger age and may even be more aggressive.
Family history and genetics
A family history of prostate cancer increases your risk of developing the disease. If your dad, brother, or close male relative had prostate cancer or gets it at a young age, your chances of getting it are higher.
Diet
A diet high in red meat and processed foods and low in vegetables may be linked to an increased risk.
Androgens- male hormones
Elevated testosterone hormone levels may contribute to prostate cancer development.
Having a higher body weight
Obesity may be associated with a greater risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
Detecting Prostate Cancer Early
Prostate cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That’s why screening is so important. Current guidelines advise men to start screening at around the age of 50. Screening typically consists of:
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA). This test measures PSA levels in the blood. Higher levels may indicate prostate cancer. However, other conditions, like an enlarged prostate, can also cause elevations.
- Digital rectal exam (DRE). This is a manual exam. Your doctor will use a gloved finger inserted in the rectum to check the prostate for irregularities.
What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
When prostate cancer symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain or discomfort in the pelvis, lower back, or hips
- Erectile dysfunction
If you’re experiencing any urinary or reproductive symptoms, don’t ignore them. A urologist can evaluate your prostate health and determine if further testing is needed.
Remember, even if you feel fine, prostate cancer can develop silently. If you’re over fifty or are younger and have risk factors, talk to your doctor about screening. Early detection makes treatment more effective.
Learn more about prostate cancer causes and get started with screening – call (541) 334-3350 to schedule an appointment today!