Causes of Prostate Cancer
The prostate gland, which is small and walnut-shaped, produces the seminal fluid that nourishes sperm. Cancer of the prostate gland is one of the most common types of cancer in men. These cancers usually grow slowly and do not spread to other parts of the body. But some are aggressive and can spread fast. Like all other cancer, the exact cause of prostate cancer is not known. Genetic mutations lead to the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells and results in the formation of a tumor. Additionally, some factors that are listed below are said to increase the risk of prostate cancer.
1) Older Men
The risk of prostate cancer in males increases with age. The incidence of prostate cancer increases after the age of 50 years. The average age at which most men get diagnosed with prostate cancer is 70 years. A study conducted on autopsy records showed the majority of men older than 90 years have cancer in their prostate.
2) Family History
Males with a history of prostate cancer in a first-degree relative, such as father or brother, are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer. The risk of you getting prostate cancer is doubled if one of your first-degree relatives has prostate cancer. The risk is 5 to 11 fold more if two or more first-degree relatives are affected.
3) Diet
High calories and dietary fat intake may influence the risk of developing prostate cancer. Evidence also links being overweight or obese to an increased risk of more aggressive and larger prostate cancer. Such cancer has poorer outcomes after treatment. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and diet might help prevent the development of prostate cancer, including other chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), etc.
4) Infection
Recently, scientists have included sexually transmitted infections, such as syphilis, gonorrhea, herpes, etc., as causative factors for prostate cancer. People with sexually transmitted infections have a 1.4 times higher risk of developing the disease than the general population.
5) Exposure to Chemicals
Chemicals such as cadmium, benzene, xylene, toluene, styrene, and other monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, can lead to the development of prostate cancer.
6) High Calcium Intake
A new study found that men who consume more calcium, either through diet or supplement, and those with high levels of calcium are two-and-a-half times more likely to develop severe prostate cancer.
