Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer – What Increases Your Risk and What You Can Control

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in many parts of the world. In countries like Sweden, thousands of men are diagnosed every year — some with slow-growing tumors, others with aggressive forms that require immediate treatment.

But why do some men develop prostate cancer while others don’t?

This article explores the key risk factors for prostate cancer, what the latest research says, and how you can take steps to reduce your risk.

Why Understanding Risk Matters

While age and genetics play major roles in prostate cancer, they’re not the whole story. Understanding your personal risk helps you:

• Decide when and how often to get tested

• Discuss proactive screening options with your doctor

• Make informed lifestyle choices that support long-term health

Let’s explore the factors that matter most.

1. Age – The Most Significant Risk Factor

Age is by far the most important risk factor for prostate cancer.

• Rare under 45: Prostate cancer is extremely uncommon in younger men.

• Sharp rise after 50: Risk increases significantly after age 50.

• Most common in men 65+: Nearly 60% of prostate cancer cases occur in men over 65.

This is why most screening guidelines recommend testing to begin around age 50 — or earlier if you have other risk factors.

2. Family History and Genetics

Having a close relative with prostate cancer doubles your risk.

Key facts:

• A father, brother, or son with prostate cancer = significantly higher lifetime risk.

• The risk is even higher if your relative was diagnosed at a young age.

• Having multiple relatives affected increases the risk further.

Inherited genes:

Certain inherited genetic mutations — such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and HOXB13 — are associated with a higher likelihood of developing prostate cancer, particularly aggressive types.

If prostate cancer runs in your family, consider:

• Testing earlier (around age 45)

• More accurate testing options (like Stockholm3)

• Genetic counseling for yourself or family members

3. Ethnicity and Race

Race and ethnicity also influence risk.

Higher risk:

• Men of African descent (especially African-American men in the US) have the highest rates of prostate cancer and are more likely to develop aggressive forms.

Lower risk:

• Asian men, particularly those in East Asia, have significantly lower rates — though risk rises when they adopt Western diets and lifestyles.

These differences are likely due to a combination of genetics, environmental factors, and access to healthcare.

4. Diet and Nutrition

Your diet plays a more important role than many people realize — especially when it comes to the development of aggressive prostate cancer.

Foods that may increase risk:

• Red and processed meats

• High-fat dairy products

• Excessive calcium intake from supplements or heavy dairy use

• Heavily processed foods high in sugars and preservatives

Foods that may lower risk:

• Tomatoes (rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant)

• Cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cauliflower)

• Green tea

• Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids

• Legumes and soy products

While no single food will prevent cancer, adopting a plant-forward, Mediterranean-style diet is a smart long-term strategy.

5. Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyle

Research shows that obesity increases the risk of:

• Developing aggressive or advanced prostate cancer

• Worse outcomes after diagnosis

• Recurrence after treatment

Why? Excess fat tissue can:

• Alter hormone levels (testosterone and estrogen)

• Promote chronic inflammation

• Affect how the body processes insulin and growth factors

What helps:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight

• Regular physical activity (150 minutes/week)

• Reducing belly fat in particular

Exercise not only lowers cancer risk — it improves mood, sleep, and overall health.

6. Hormones and Testosterone

Prostate cancer is fueled by androgens — male sex hormones like testosterone. While having higher testosterone doesn’t necessarily cause cancer, it may influence how fast it grows.

There’s still debate among researchers, but:

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT or TRT) should be used cautiously, especially in men with high PSA levels.

• Doctors often use hormone-suppressing treatments to slow or shrink prostate tumors.

Monitoring testosterone levels may be part of a personalized risk strategy — especially if you’re considering HRT.

7. Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation in the prostate (known as prostatitis) has been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer, though the research is still evolving.

Potential sources of chronic inflammation include:

• Recurrent urinary tract infections

• STDs or other infections

• Diets high in sugar or saturated fats

Inflammation causes tissue damage, and over time this can lead to cell mutations and abnormal growth.

8. Environmental and Occupational Exposures

Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, especially in high-exposure occupations such as:

• Firefighters

• Farmers (pesticide exposure)

• Metalworkers and welders

• Industrial workers handling cadmium or toxic solvents

Reducing exposure and using protective equipment can help, but some risks are difficult to avoid entirely.

9. Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking is not a major cause of prostate cancer, but it:

• May increase the risk of aggressive forms

• Worsens outcomes in men already diagnosed

• Raises the chance of recurrence

Alcohol’s role is less clear, but heavy drinking has been linked to:

• Hormonal disruption

• Increased inflammation

• General cancer risk

Moderation is key: No smoking and limited alcohol (1–2 drinks/day max) is the safest approach.

10. Low Vitamin D Levels

Men with low levels of vitamin D — particularly those who live in northern climates — may have a higher risk of prostate cancer, though research is ongoing.

Vitamin D may help regulate cell growth and reduce inflammation.

Safe sun exposure, vitamin D-rich foods (like salmon and egg yolks), or supplements can help maintain healthy levels.

How to Reduce Your Risk – A Practical Checklist

While you can’t change your age or genetics, you can make choices that support prostate health:

✅ Know your family history
✅ Eat a plant-rich, balanced diet
✅ Stay active – aim for 30 mins of movement daily
✅ Maintain a healthy weight
✅ Don’t smoke
✅ Limit alcohol intake
✅ Get enough vitamin D
✅ Discuss screening with your doctor

When Should You Get Tested?

Based on your risk factors, here's when to consider testing:

Risk LevelWhen to Start TestingAverage (no risk factors)Around age 50Family history or geneticsAround age 45African descentAround age 45 (or earlier)Symptoms (urination issues, etc.)Immediately – see a doctor

Modern tests like Stockholm3 provide a more personalized and accurate assessment — especially useful for men in medium-to-high risk groups.

Why Stockholm3 Makes a Difference

Unlike traditional PSA testing, which is limited in precision, the Stockholm3 test analyzes:

• Multiple blood-based biomarkers

• Genetic variants linked to prostate cancer risk

• Clinical variables (age, BMI, family history)

This allows for:

• More accurate risk prediction

• Better identification of aggressive cancer

• Fewer unnecessary biopsies

Final Thoughts

Prostate cancer doesn’t develop overnight. By understanding your risk profile and making proactive choices, you can take control of your health — and catch potential issues before they become serious.