Risk Factors - The main risk factors

Age

The greatest risk factor for prostate cancer is, without question, age. Studies suggest that as many as 50% of men over 80 have early stage prostate cancer. However, it should be noted that 15% of all diagnoses are made under age 65 and this number grows each year.

Ethnic Origin

Afro-Caribbeans have a death rate from prostate cancer double that of Caucasian men, three times that of Hispanic men and five times that of Asian men. (But note that Asian men living a "western lifestyle" have the same rate of incidence as Caucasian men.)

Family History

Men with a family history of prostate cancer, particularly uncles and fathers, have a two to three fold increased risk of developing prostate cancer. Some people believe that there is a familial connection between breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Diet

A diet high in saturated animal fat may double the risk of developing prostate cancer. Consumption of soy protein and lycopene - an antioxidant - may be associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer.

Age	The greatest risk factor for prostate cancer is, without question, age. Studies suggest that as many as 50% of men over 80 have early stage prostate cancer. However, it should be noted that 15% of all diagnoses are made under age 65 and this number grows each year.
Ethnic Origin	Afro-Caribbeans have a death rate from prostate cancer double that of Caucasian men, three times that of Hispanic men and five times that of Asian men. (But note that Asian men living a "western lifestyle" have the same rate of incidence as Caucasian men.)
Family History	Men with a family history of prostate cancer, particularly uncles and fathers, have a two to three fold increased risk of developing prostate cancer. Some people believe that there is a familial connection between breast cancer and prostate cancer.
Diet	A diet high in saturated animal fat may double the risk of developing prostate cancer. Consumption of soy protein and lycopene - an antioxidant - may be associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer.