The prostate is a small gland in men that produces seminal fluid. Prostate cancer is cancer that develops in this gland. When left unchecked, the tumor can grow and reach the vital organs. To minimize the chances of aggravation, here is a list of causes and risk factors of prostate cancer that you should know about.

Causes of prostate cancer

1. Genes
Like most other types of cancer, the exact cause of prostate cancer has not been identified yet. Most times, changes in specific genes can be the reason for developing tumors in the prostate gland. Certain tumor suppressor genes in the body prevent cells from abnormally growing and developing. In some instances, these genes may not function properly, leading to tumor cells.

2. Environmental effects
Exposure to toxins either at work or at home consistently over a long duration can trigger the growth of cancer cells.

3. Lifestyle habits
Smoking is a sure cause for developing all kinds of cancers, including prostate cancer.

Risk factors

1. Age
Older people are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to younger men. According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, only 1 in every 10,000 men under 40 develops this condition. However, 1 in every 14 men between the ages of 60 and 69 develops it.

2. Family history
Prostate cancer runs in the family. Men who have relatives with prostate cancer are at a higher risk for developing the condition themselves when compared to others.

3. Race
Seemingly, men of African descent are 75% more at risk for developing cancer in the prostate glands when compared to men of Caucasian descent. In fact, studies show that the condition is 2.2 times more fatal in African men than in Caucasian men.

4. Excess weight
Men who have excess fat are at a higher risk for developing prostate cancer than men who have normal BMI levels.

5. Food
The food consumed is also a risk factor for developing cancer. Men who have red meat regularly, plus excessive saturated and trans fat in their meals seem to have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

6. Location
According to studies, prostate cancer is very rare in Asia, Africa, and South America. It is more prevalent in North America and Australia. Researchers are of the opinion that certain environmental and food pattern differences may cause this risk.

7. Sedentary lifestyle
Men who have a desk job and spend more of their time sitting in one place are at a higher risk for developing prostate cancer than men who are active.

It is vital to make a note of all these causes and risk factors of prostate cancer, and do what you can to minimize the risk. If you have a family history of this type of cancer, getting yourself screened regularly will help.