A risk factor in a condition or disease is one that increases one’s chances of risk of attaining the ailment. In this article, we will talk about some of the top risk factors for prostate cancer. Some of the risk factors can be changed, whereas others cannot be changed. In the case of prostate cancer, age and family history are some of the risk factors that can’t be changed.

1. Age
Age is one of the top risk factors for prostate cancer. Men over the age of 40 are at a higher risk of getting prostate cancer, and the chances rise faster after the age of 50. It is seen that 80% of people with prostate cancer are over the age of 65.

2. Family history
If anyone from a particular family has had cancer, someone from that family also may be at a higher risk of attaining prostate cancer. For instance, if more than one of the first-degree relatives (son, father, or brother) has had prostate cancer, one might be at risk of developing it. Also, if another family member has had some sort of cancer in the past, it increases the risk of getting prostate cancer.

3. Exposure to agent orange or chemicals
As listed by the US Department of Veteran Affairs, prostate cancer can be caused by exposure to Agent Orange, which was a chemical used during the Vietnam War. Also, according to some evidence, firefighters might be exposed to chemicals that may eventually lead to prostate cancer.

4. Race
African-American men are more vulnerable to prostate cancer than men of other races. It is seen that men with African-American or Caribbean ethnicity develop prostate cancer at a very young age, and prostate cancer is diagnosed at a very advanced stage.

5. High testosterone levels
Many men who undergo testosterone therapy may develop the risk of developing prostate cancer. The reason being that testosterone therapy stimulates prostate gland growth.

6. Gene changes
Genetic changes or inherited genetic mutations can also lead to prostate cancer. For instance, inherited genetic mutations of BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes can increase the risk of prostate cancer in men. These are the same genes that are responsible for causing ovarian or breast cancer. Also, men who have Lynch syndrome, which is also known as HNPCC or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer, are at risk of developing prostate cancer.

7. Vasectomy
Men who have undergone a vasectomy, a surgery that prevents the semen from being fertile, may have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

The above are some of the top risk factors for prostate cancer. Although there are no proven ways to prevent prostate cancer, it can be avoided by living a healthy lifestyle, such as eating healthy, exercising regularly, and not falling for any unhealthy habits. The risk of prostate cancer can also be reduced by keeping a healthier prostate.