Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
Age and Prostate Cancer Incidence
Age is a significant risk factor for prostate cancer. Rare before 40, the probability of diagnosis escalates post-50. Statistics from Cancer Research UK indicate that 60% of cases occur in men over 65.
Racial and Ethnic Considerations
Prostate cancer prevalence varies by race. In the UK, black men face a 1 in 4 lifetime risk, double the 1 in 8 risk for the general male population. Conversely, Asian men have a reduced risk compared to their black and white counterparts.
Family History and Genetic Predisposition
A family history of prostate cancer can double or triple risk, especially with multiple relatives affected or early-onset within the family. Genetically, BRCA2 mutations confer an approximately 15% lifetime risk of prostate cancer.
Dietary Influences on Risk
Dietary habits are also influential. High red meat and dairy intake potentially elevate risk by 12%, while fruit and vegetable-rich diets may offer a modest protective effect.
Obesity and Cancer Aggressiveness
Obesity increases the risk of aggressive prostate cancer by 33%, as per findings in "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, & Prevention".
Other Contributing Factors
Chronic inflammation and infections within the prostate may escalate risk, though research is ongoing to solidify these associations.
Early Detection and Symptoms
What do I feel if I have prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer initially may be asymptomatic due to its deep pelvic location. When present, symptoms include urinary frequency, mainly nocturnal, difficulties in urination, pain during urination or painful ejaculation, and blood in urine or bloody semen.
Advanced prostate cancer symptoms entail back, hip, pelvic, or thigh pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, altered bowel habits, and pelvic or leg swelling.
I am 50 years old. Should I check my prostate?
Screening's efficacy is debated due to false positives and overdiagnosis. PSA tests and DREs are commonly used, with screening commencing at 50 for average-risk men or 45 for those at higher risk, like black men or those with a family history of early-onset prostate cancer.
What treatment options are there for prostate cancer?
Personalised Treatment Plans
Treatment is tailored based on cancer stage, patient health, and preferences, involving active surveillance, radical prostatectomy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and, in advanced cases, chemotherapy.
What are emerging treatments and innovations for prostate cancer?
Advancements in precision medicine, immunotherapy, radioligand therapy, PSMA PET scanning, and AI offer promising improvements in prognosis and life quality.
Reflecting on prostate cancer
Understanding these factors enables both patients and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about prostate cancer risk, detection, and treatment, spotlighting the importance of personalised care and the exciting potential of new medical advancements.
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