Key Takeaways:

• What is prostate cancer?
• What are the causes of prostate cancer?
• What are the risk factors for prostate cancer?
• Prostate cancer symptoms
• Prostate cancer prevention

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men both in the U.S. and worldwide. The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland just below the bladder that produces fluid for semen. Cancer develops when cells in this gland grow out of control.

Most prostate cancers grow slowly and remain confined to the gland, often causing little harm. However, some can be aggressive. Early stages frequently show no symptoms, which is why regular screenings—like the digital rectal exam (DRE) or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test—are so important. Over 80 % of cases are detected early, greatly improving treatment success.¹

Understanding the basics of what causes prostate cancer can help you take proactive steps to manage your health.

Understanding the Causes & Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer:

• Age: Risk rises significantly after age 50.
• Family history: A strong family history of prostate cancer elevates your risk.
• Race: African American men face higher risk and often more aggressive disease.
• Diet: Diets high in fat—particularly red and processed meats—are linked to increased risk.
• Hormones: Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) may play a role.
• Lifestyle: Sedentary behavior, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to higher risk.

Environmental exposures—like limited sun (vitamin D deficiency) and contact with certain chemicals or heavy metals—can also increase risk, especially in higher-risk groups. Genetic testing has identified at least two genes associated with prostate cancer, which can help family members understand their own risk. Staying active, eating a balanced diet, and keeping up with screenings are key to managing prostate health.¹

Recognizing the Symptoms

In its early stages, prostate cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms.¹ As it progresses, you might experience:

• Problems with urination (weak or interrupted stream, difficulty starting or stopping, frequent urges—especially at night—or burning/pain during urination)
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Persistent pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
• Painful ejaculation

These signs can also arise from benign conditions (e.g., enlarged prostate or infections). If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider promptly. Early detection offers more treatment options and better outcomes.¹

Prevention & Early Detection

• Regular Screenings: Discuss PSA tests and DRE with your doctor, especially after age 50 (or earlier if you have risk factors).
• Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins; limit red and processed meats.
• Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity has been linked to more aggressive prostate cancer.
• Avoid Tobacco & Limit Alcohol: Both can contribute to cancer risk.
• Vitamin D & Sunlight: Moderate sun exposure or supplementation may support prostate health.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer can be serious, but early detection through regular screenings (PSA and DRE) significantly improves treatment success. Pay attention to any urinary changes or persistent pain, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Staying informed and proactive about your prostate health can make a substantial difference—talk to your doctor about your screening options and risk factors today.

References

1. National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Prostate cancer. MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/prostatecancer.html