The prostate, which is a small gland located under the bladder, is responsible for producing seminal fluid. And its cancer is one of the most commonly seen in men. The condition can grow slowly or rapidly, causing varying levels of discomfort to patients. Symptoms like bone pain and erectile dysfunction may not be noticeable in the early stages but can get much worse as the disease progresses.

While experts are unclear as to what really causes prostate cancer, they have been able to identify certain risk factors that increase the probability of the disorder. Here are the top six that men should be aware of:

Age

Men under the age of 40 are rarely diagnosed with prostate cancer. The disease mostly affects men over the age of 65. In fact, more than 80% of all prostate cancer cases are seen in men aged 65 or more. This factor is on the top of the list when it comes to prostate cancer risks.

Family history

Inherited mutations are often the reason behind prostate cancer. The American Cancer Society claims that 5%-10% of all cases are usually due to this, with shared genes and environmental factors playing a role in it. The probability of getting diagnosed with prostate cancer more than doubles if someone in their immediate family also has the disease. One can, conversely, get it through a relative although that only makes up 5% of all cases.

Diet

While more research is needed to properly understand the link between diet and prostate cancer, few studies have revealed that a diet rich in meat and dairy products increases the risk of this condition. Obesity, which stems from poor eating habits, is also associated with prostate cancers, showing that diet can increase or decrease the risk of the condition. The level of calcium has been identified as a potential problem as men with higher calcium intake were at greater risk of developing prostate cancer.

Race and ethnicity

It isn’t clearly understood why men of some races are at greater risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Men of African ancestry face the greatest risk and are twice as likely to die from the disorder compared to those of other races. They’re also likely to get the condition at a young age. Men of Asian and Hispanic men ancestry are the least likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Geographical location

Prostate cancer is less common in Asia, Africa, and South America. It is conversely seen more in men living in North America, Australia, and the Caribbean Islands. Again, experts are unsure why this happens. One of the most plausible reasons for this occurrence could be the higher number of screenings in developed countries compared to those in developing ones.

Exposure to chemicals

Few studies have gone on to prove that exposure to certain chemicals increases the risk of prostate cancer. Agent Orange and similar chemicals have been identified as potential triggers that lead to prostate cancer.

Firefighters and farmers are at maximum risk as they’re regularly exposed to chemicals of such nature. However, more studies will be needed to properly understand the relation.