The term cancer covers a wide range of diseases that are caused due to the abnormal multiplication of malignant cells in the body. Cancer that grows in the prostate is commonly referred to as prostate cancer. There is no single cause of prostate cancer, but multiple risk factors can make it more likely to develop this disease. In this article, we shall discuss a few of them:

1. Age
One of the biggest risk factors of prostate cancer is age. Individuals above the age of 50 are more prone to developing this condition than those below fifty. Studies have also shown that almost 60% of individuals with prostate cancer are over the age of 65. Older individuals are more prone to developing this disease and are also prone to facing unique challenges when it comes to treating cancer.

2. Race
Another factor that can contribute to an increased risk of prostate cancer is race. Research suggests that those of African ancestry are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than those of other races. It also indicates that individuals of African origin are more likely to die due to prostate cancer.

3. Genetic predisposition
Genetics also plays an important role when it comes to developing prostate cancer. This is because those who inherit mutated BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are more likely to develop prostate cancer. Mutated BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are typically linked to hereditary breast or ovarian cancer (HBOC). This is why the number of those who have developed prostate cancer with these genes as contributing factors is relatively small. To stay safe, individuals who have these genes should get screened for prostate cancer at an early age. This may help prevent the disease from manifesting and spreading in the body. Other genetic mutations that can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer include HPC1, HPC2, HPCX, CAPB, ATM, FANCA, HOXB13.

4. Geographical location
Prostate cancer is a disease that is more likely to affect those living in North America and North Europe. It is also commonly seen in Asian countries, especially in urbanized areas such as Hong Kong and Singapore.

5. Family history
Prostate cancer, much like other cancers, can be passed on to and inherited in the bloodline. In fact, prostate cancer that runs in the family is actually known as familial prostate cancer makes up almost 20% of the total cases. The reasons for the increased risk could be shared lifestyle or inherited genes.

6. Exposure to certain chemicals
According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, those who were exposed to Agent Orange are more likely to develop prostate cancer. Agent Orange is a chemical that was used during the Vietnam War. Those who have been exposed to this should get screened for prostate cancer.