According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in America. One in seven men will be diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lives. In 2017, it is estimated that there will be over 161,000 new cases of prostate cancer and nearly 28,000 deaths from it. Understanding this disease is an important first step in helping find reliable treatment plans as well as a long-term cure.
Contributing Factors
There are many contributing factors that present a greater likelihood of being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Some of the most common include:
- Age - Age is a predominate factor in determining who is at a greater risk of contracting the disease, with 6 in 10 cases diagnosed in males over age 65. The average age prostate cancer is detected in is 66.
- Genetics - A family history of prostate cancer also plays a part in who is likely to develop the disease. Men with two or more family members who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer are four times more likely to contract the disease. Additionally, there is an even greater risk if family members were diagnosed before age 65.
- Race – African American men are 73 percent more likely to develop prostate cancer than Caucasians, and are over two times more likely to succumb from the illness.
- Environment – Factors such as diet and lifestyle can play an important part in who will develop the disease. Obesity can also impact the outcome of the illness.
Prostate cancer myths
While there are many known factors that increase the risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer, there are also some myths regarding who is more likely to get the disease.
- Testosterone Therapy - Some believe taking testosterone or undergoing testosterone therapy can create a higher risk of prostate cancer. In fact, findings based on a 9 year study confirmed that those undergoing hormone therapy actually had a lower risk of developing cancer.
- Sexual activity – A robust sex life or frequent ejaculation does not increase the risk of prostate cancer. In fact, some studies suggest that more frequent sexual activity might actual lower the risk.
- Vasectomy – While a vasectomy was once thought to increase the risk of developing this type of cancer, it has since been disproven.
- Alcohol – Consuming alcohol does not increase the risk of prostate cancer, although it is still an excellent idea to consume in moderation for other health reasons.
Are you concerned about prostate cancer or other men’s health issues? Contact the team at Invigorate Men’s Health and Wellness to learn more about your risk factors.
