Prostate cancer risk is not the same for every man. Some men have factors that make them more likely to develop the disease, while others may have no obvious risk factors at all. Age, family history, race and ancestry, and inherited genetic changes can all affect prostate cancer risk.
Knowing these factors does not mean you can predict whether you will develop prostate cancer. It can, however, give you a better idea of what information to share with your urologist and whether you may need to discuss screening earlier or more often
Age Is One of the Biggest Risk Factors
The chance of developing prostate cancer increases as men get older. Age is one of the first things a urologist considers when discussing prostate cancer risk and screening.
That does not mean younger men cannot develop prostate cancer. It means age becomes increasingly important when assessing an individual’s risk.
Family History Can Tell You More Than You Think
A family history of prostate cancer can increase your risk, particularly when a close relative, such as a father or brother, has been diagnosed.
When talking with your urologist, be prepared to share more than whether prostate cancer “runs in the family.” If possible, know which relatives were diagnosed, how old they were at diagnosis, and whether multiple family members have had prostate or other types of cancer. These details can help your urologist better understand your family history.
Race and Ancestry Matter, Too
Black men have a higher incidence of prostate cancer and are more likely to die from the disease than many other groups. Because of these differences, race and ancestry may be part of a conversation about when screening should begin. Your urologist can consider this information alongside your other risk factors.
Your Genes May Provide Additional Information
Some men inherit genetic changes that can increase their risk of prostate cancer. BRCA1, BRCA2 and HOXB13 are examples of genes associated with prostate cancer risk.
Genetic testing is not necessary for every man. It may be worth discussing if you have a strong family history of prostate or related cancers, multiple relatives with cancer, or other information that suggests an inherited cancer risk.
A genetic finding does not mean you will develop prostate cancer. It can provide information that may help guide screening and, if cancer is diagnosed, may also have implications for treatment.
What Does It Mean to Be at Higher Risk?
Being at higher risk does not mean prostate cancer is inevitable. It means certain factors may make your risk greater than that of another man.
It is also important to remember that men without known risk factors can still develop prostate cancer. There is no way to predict every case based on family history, genetics, or other known factors.
Your urologist will look at your risk factors together rather than relying on one factor alone.
Why Knowing Your Risk Matters
Your risk factors can help your urologist determine when to discuss screening with you. A man with a strong family history or an inherited genetic risk may need to discuss screening earlier than someone without those risk factors.
Prostate cancer also may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Waiting until symptoms appear is not a reliable way to decide when it is time to talk about screening.
Start by knowing your family history. Ask relatives about previous cancer diagnoses and ages at diagnosis. Share that information with your urologist, along with any known genetic testing results.
Know Your Risk. Know When to Ask Questions.
Your age, family history, race and ancestry, genetics and other factors can all contribute to your risk. No single factor can predict whether you will develop prostate cancer.
Knowing your risk can help you have a more useful conversation with your urologist about screening and your prostate health. If you have questions about your personal risk, talk with a provider at Urology Alliance.
