The prostate gland, which is small and walnut-shaped, plays a vital role in producing the seminal fluid that nourishes sperm. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, with a global prevalence that underscores its significance. Typically, these cancers grow slowly and may not spread beyond the prostate. However, some types can be aggressive and spread quickly. Just like many other cancers, the precise cause of prostate cancer remains unknown. Genetic mutations can trigger the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells, leading to tumor formation. Besides that, several factors can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, which are outlined below.
1) Older Men
The likelihood of developing prostate cancer rises with age. The risk significantly increases after the age of 50, with most men being diagnosed around 70 years old. Interestingly, studies of autopsy records reveal that a significant number of men over 90 have prostate cancer, indicating that many cases may remain undetected during a man's lifetime. This aligns with findings that suggest advancing age is a major risk factor for the disease, with older men exhibiting a higher incidence rate [5].
2) Family History
If you have a first-degree relative, like a father or brother, who has had prostate cancer, your risk is higher. In fact, having one affected relative doubles your chance of developing the disease, and it can be 5 to 11 times greater if two or more first-degree relatives are involved. This familial link indicates a genetic predisposition that is significant in the etiology of prostate cancer [5].
3) Diet
An increased intake of calories and dietary fats may contribute to the risk of prostate cancer. Research has shown that the composition of dietary fats, particularly the fatty acid profile, can influence the aggressiveness of prostate cancer [2]. Moreover, being overweight or obese has been linked to more aggressive forms of the disease, which often have less favorable treatment outcomes. Adopting a healthier lifestyle and diet can potentially prevent not only prostate cancer but also other chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Notably, dietary patterns rich in certain fats may also be associated with oxidative stress, further complicating cancer risk [4].
4) Infection
Recent research has identified sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis, gonorrhea, and herpes, as potential risk factors for prostate cancer. Those with such infections have a 1.4 times higher chance of developing the disease compared to the general population. This correlation highlights the importance of understanding the role of infections in cancer pathogenesis [3].
5) Exposure to Chemicals
Exposure to certain chemicals, such as cadmium, benzene, xylene, toluene, styrene, and other monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, has been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer. These substances may disrupt hormonal balances or cause cellular damage, contributing to the development of cancer [3].
6) High Calcium Intake
A recent study indicated that men consuming high amounts of calcium, whether from dietary sources or supplements, are two-and-a-half times more likely to develop severe prostate cancer. This association suggests that calcium intake should be monitored as part of dietary considerations for prostate health [3].
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References:
- Katie M Di Sebastiano, Marina Mourtzakis. The role of dietary fat throughout the prostate cancer trajectory.. PubMed. 2014.
- Sandy Figiel, Michelle Pinault, Isabelle Domingo, Cyrille Guimaraes, Roseline Guibon, Pierre Besson, Elsa Tavernier, Pascal Blanchet, Luc Multigner, Franck Bruyère, Olivier Haillot, Romain Mathieu, Sebastien Vincendeau, Nathalie Rioux-Leclercq, Souhil Lebdai, Abdel-Rahmene Azzouzi, Marie-Aimee Perrouin-Verbe, Georges Fournier, Laurent Doucet, Jerome Rigaud, Karine Renaudin, Karine Mahéo, Gaëlle Fromont. Fatty acid profile in peri-prostatic adipose tissue and prostate cancer aggressiveness in African-Caribbean and Caucasian patients.. PubMed. 2018.
- Medjda Bellamri, Robert J Turesky. Dietary Carcinogens and DNA Adducts in Prostate Cancer.. PubMed. 2019.
- Karen S Bishop, Sharon Erdrich, Nishi Karunasinghe, Dug Yeo Han, Shuotun Zhu, Amalini Jesuthasan, Lynnette R Ferguson. An investigation into the association between DNA damage and dietary fatty acid in men with prostate cancer.. PubMed. 2015.
- Veda N Giri, Jennifer L Beebe-Dimmer. Familial prostate cancer.. PubMed. 2016.