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Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

Authors:
  • Michael Jubinville, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

A risk factor can increase the chances that something happens. There are things that can increase the risk of getting prostate cancer. Some things can be changed—like smoking. Others things cannot—like genetics.

Having risk factors does not mean a person will get this cancer. A person can also get cancer even without these risks. A person should talk to their care team about any risks they may have.

Things that may raise the risk of prostate cancer include:

Age

Prostate cancer is rare in people under 40 years old. The risk of prostate cancer rises after age 50. It happens most often in people 65 years of age and older.

References

  • Prostate cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/prostate-cancer.
  • Prostate cancer risk factors. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html.
  • What is prostate cancer? Urology Care Foundation website. Available at: https://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/prostate-cancer/causes.

Contributors

  • Nicole S. Meregian, PA
Last Updated:
2022-02-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.