Why is prostate cancer so common?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among men and is the second leading cause of cancer death in men, surpassed only by lung cancer. It affects about 1 in 7 men over the age of 50, although it can affect younger men as well. The exact causes of prostate cancer are still unknown, but there are several factors that may increase a man’s risk:

• Age – Older age increases the risk; most cases occur in men 65 or older
• Family history – Men with a father or brother who have had prostate cancer are at greater risk
• Race – African American and Caribbean-born black males have higher rates than other racial groups
• Diet– Having a diet high in fat may increase risk; however eating foods containing tomato products (like pasta sauces) can reduce the chance
• Obesity - Being overweight has been linked to an increased risk for prostate cancer

Although it's hard to prevent all kinds of cancers, being conscious about these risks and making informed decisions regarding your health can help reduce your chances for developing this disease. Following a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables along with regular physical activity helps maintain overall good health which benefits many areas including reducing your chances for prostate cancer. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have related to prostate health so you can work together on finding ways to keep yourself healthy!