Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate gland, which is a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. The exact cause of prostate cancer is not known, but researchers have identified several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These risk factors include:

• Age: The risk of developing prostate cancer increases as men get older, and most cases are diagnosed in men over 50 years of age.

• Ethnicity: Prostate cancer is more common in black men than in Asian men.

• Family history: Having a brother or father who developed prostate cancer before age 60 seems to increase the risk of developing it. Research also shows that having a close female relative who developed breast cancer may also increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.

• Obesity: Recent research suggests there may be a link between obesity and prostate cancer, and a balanced diet and regular exercise may lower the risk of developing prostate cancer.

• Diet: Research is ongoing into the links between diet and prostate cancer, and there is some evidence that a diet high in calcium is linked to an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

On a basic level, prostate cancer is caused by changes in the DNA of a normal prostate cell. DNA is the chemical in our cells that makes up our genes, which control how our cells function. Some genes control when our cells grow, divide into new cells, and die. Certain genes that help cells grow, divide, and stay alive are called oncogenes. Others that slow down cell division or make cells die at the right time are called tumor suppressor genes. Mutations in these genes can cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, leading to the development of cancer.

Inherited gene changes are thought to play a role in about 10% of prostate cancers. Cancer caused by inherited genes is called hereditary cancer. Several inherited mutated genes have been linked to hereditary prostate cancer, including BRCA1 and BRCA2.

While there is no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the disease. These include maintaining a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.