Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men – and it can affect everything from how you pee to your sex life.
The good news? Understanding common prostate cancer causes can help you catch it – and treat it – early.
We asked Joseph Wagner, MD, chief of urology and director of robotic surgery at Hartford Hospital, to share a few of the most common causes.
1. You’re older than 50.
Age is the biggest risk factor for prostate cancer. Most cases are diagnosed in men over 65.
As men age, hormonal changes and shifts in how prostate cells grow can increase cancer risk – even without symptoms.
“As men age, the risk goes up,” says Dr. Wagner. “That’s why screenings become important for everyone to consider after 50. Black men should consider screening even earlier at age 40.”
> Related: What Every Man Should Know About Prostate Cancer
2. You have a family history.
Genetics can play a major role in prostate cancer risk.
Talk to your doctor if you or a close relative has any of the following:
- Breast cancer (if diagnosed before age 50)
- Triple-negative breast cancer
- Male breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
“If you have a family history, genetic testing can be especially helpful,” says Dr. Wagner. “If testing shows a higher risk, a urologist can help decide when and how to start screening.”
> Related: Should I Get Genetic Testing for Prostate Cancer?
3. Your diet.
What you eat matters – especially when it comes to your cancer risk.
Diets high in red meat, processed meats like bacon and full-fat dairy (but low in fruits and vegetables) can increase your risk.
“There are no magic foods for prevention,” says Dr. Wagner. “But making smart choices can support your overall prostate health.”
Simple changes can help:
- Ask about calcium: Too much from supplements may increase risk.
- Eat more fatty fish: Salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3s that reduce inflammation.
- Go green: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts and other veggies may help fight cancer.
- Sip green tea: Antioxidants may offer added protection.
- Try a Mediterranean-style diet: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
These changes may reduce exposure to known prostate cancer causes.
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Take charge of your prostate health.
Regular screenings can catch prostate cancer early – when it’s most treatable.
For most men, that starts around age 50.
“But if you have a family history or are Black, you may need to start earlier,” says Dr. Wagner. “Talk to your doctor about the right timing for you.”
And if you’re experiencing symptoms like trouble urinating, blood in your urine or pain in your back or pelvis – don’t wait. Get checked today.
“You can’t change your age or genetics,” says Dr. Wagner. “But you can take steps to protect your health. Start the conversation with your doctor or urologist today.”
