Marked by an uncontrolled cancer cell growth in the prostate area, malignant in nature, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer found in men. The prostate is the walnut-sized gland in men, located below the bladder, in front of the rectum, surrounding the urethra. In 2019, a cancer society predicted that there will be nearly 174,650 new diagnoses of prostate cancer and around 31,620 deaths from prostate cancer. This type of cancer grows slowly, such that other diseases take over before prostate cancer causes significant problems. However, many prostate cancers can be deadly as they can spread outside the prostate gland confines and are more aggressive in nature.

The top risk factors for prostate cancer increase with age, family history, lifestyle and other dietary factors. The exact causes of prostate cancer are not yet known and researchers are studying the actual factors that determine the risks of prostate cancer. The rate of survival in prostate cancer can be greatly improved with early detection and prescribed treatment. There are several symptoms that may indicate a prostate cancer risk in men. Some of these include difficulty in maintaining urination, pain during urination, frequent urge to urinate, pain on ejaculation in some cases and discomfort when sitting. It is important to notice these symptoms and see a medical expert for a proper diagnosis.

These top risk factors for prostate cancer raise the chances of developing the disease:

Age
The prostate cancer risk increases with age, especially for men above 50 years. 80% of people diagnosed with prostate cancer are men above 65 years of age.

Family history
20% of all prostate cancer cases are developed due to genetics. It develops owing to a combination of shared genes and environmental or lifestyle factors. It is usually hereditary where it could have been inherited from two or more first-degree relatives with prostate cancer. Or three more generations of the same side of the family have suffered from prostate cancer. The risk also increases if a man has a first degree relative meaning a father, son or brother with prostate cancer before 55 years of age.

Exposure to Agent Orange
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) also lists prostate cancer as a disease associated with exposure to Agent Orange. It was a chemical used during the Vietnam War. If you associate your prostate cancer detection with this cause, check with your doctor immediately.

Eating habits
There is research evidence proving that diet and nutrition play a role in the significance of this type of cancer. There are studies that look at these food links such as eating habits and behavior, like obesity is linked to many cancer forms, including prostate cancer. Hence, it is recommended to follow a healthy diet.

Although there are no documented ways to prevent this disease, researchers believe that one can certainly lower the risks by keeping in mind the top risk factors for prostate cancer. Timely consultation and early-stage detection can take care of the disease through appropriate medication and treatment.