Causes of prostate cancer can vary, depending on individuals. Researches, have proven that prostate cancer occurs when the DNA in prostatic cells develops mutations. These mutations tell the cells to grow and divide more rapidly than normal cells do. While the healthy cells die, the abnormal cells continue to accumulate, forming a tumor that can eventually invade nearby tissue or spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. However, some of the fundamental causes of prostate included:
1. Natural Causes
Generally, most basic causes of prostate cancer are linked to natural settings of the human system. Some of which includes; Age, genetics, race, etc.
Age
The single greatest risk factor is age. Prostate cancer is rare in men under 40, but the damage to cell DNA accumulates over time. By age 60, the incidence rises significantly, and the majority of cases are diagnosed in men over 65.
Genetics and Heredity
Findings by medical professionals, have shown that about 5% to 10% of prostate cancers are considered primarily hereditary. This means that if prostate is in your family, there’s every tendency that you could have it with time. You may notice it now, bout age always avails it. Under hereditary, the following are makeups:
- Family History: Having a father or brother with the disease more than doubles your risk.
- Specific Gene Mutations: Mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes (often associated with breast and ovarian cancer) significantly increase prostate cancer risk.
- Lynch Syndrome: A genetic condition that increases the risk of several types of cancer.
Ethnicity and Race
Research consistently shows that African American men and men of African ancestry have a higher incidence of prostate cancer and are more likely to be diagnosed at an advanced stage. Conversely, the incidence is lowest among Asian-American and Hispanic/Latino men.
2. Hormonal Influence
Prostate cells, both healthy and cancerous, rely on male hormones called androgens (like testosterone) to grow.
- DHT (Dihydrotestosterone): This is a derivative of testosterone that is crucial for normal prostate growth but can also fuel the progression of cancer cells.
- Hormonal Imbalance: High levels of androgens can act as a “fertilizer” for mutated cells. This is why many treatments focus on “androgen deprivation therapy” to starve the cancer of its fuel.
3. Lifestyle
While genetics loads the gun, lifestyle often pulls the trigger. These factors are heavily studied for their “epigenetic” effects—meaning they can turn certain cancer-promoting genes on or off.
Dietary Habits
The “Western Diet” is frequently linked to higher rates of aggressive prostate cancer. Key culprits include:
- High Dairy Consumption: Some studies suggest a link between high calcium intake and increased risk.
- Red and Processed Meats: High-fat diets, particularly those rich in animal fats, may alter hormone levels and promote inflammation.
- Obesity: While obesity doesn’t necessarily cause prostate cancer, it is strongly linked to more aggressive forms of the disease. Fat tissue is metabolically active, producing hormones and inflammatory markers.
Chemical Exposure
Environmental toxins can act as endocrine disruptors.
- Agent Orange: Veterans exposed to this herbicide during the Vietnam War have shown higher rates of the disease.
- Cadmium and Heavy Metals: Long-term exposure in industrial settings may damage cellular repair mechanisms.
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4. Inflammation and the Micro-Environment
Chronic inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis) is a major area of ongoing research.
- Infection: Some researchers believe that certain Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or chronic urinary tract infections can lead to long-term inflammation, which eventually triggers cancerous changes in the tissue.
- Oxidative Stress: When the body has too many “free radicals” and not enough antioxidants, it leads to DNA damage. The prostate is particularly sensitive to this type of cellular stress.
Doctor Brandy Harmon 
