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About Prostate Cancer
The Facts
Prostate cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among men in the United States. While it can affect men of all backgrounds, the risk of developing prostate cancer is not evenly distributed across the population. Research from the American Cancer Society consistently shows that age, family history, and race/ethnicity are the most significant and well-established risk factors. It is estimated that 333,830 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 36,320 will die from the disease in 2026.
What are the risk factors for prostate cancer?
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Age - The likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases sharply as men get older. The disease is rare in men under the age of 40, begins to rise noticeably after age 50, and is most commonly diagnosed in men aged 65 and older. This pattern reflects the cumulative effects of aging on the prostate, including long-term cellular changes and genetic mutations that occur over time. As the population continues to age, prostate cancer remains a growing public health concern, particularly for older men who may already be managing other chronic health conditions.
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Race/Ethnicity - Black men in the United States experience the highest incidence of prostate cancer and are significantly more likely to die from the disease than men of any other racial or ethnic group. On average, Black men are diagnosed at younger ages and with more aggressive forms of prostate cancer. These disparities are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including genetics, social determinants of health, access to quality care, screening practices, and systemic inequities within the healthcare system. In contrast, Asian American and Pacific Islander men tend to have lower incidence and mortality rates, while American Indian and Alaska Native men experience concerning mortality patterns despite lower reported incidence in some regions.
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Family history - Men with a first-degree relative such as a father or brother who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease themselves. This risk increases further when multiple family members are affected or when relatives were diagnosed at a younger age. Certain inherited gene mutations, including BRCA2 and BRCA1, as well as hereditary cancer syndromes like Lynch syndrome, are associated with an increased likelihood of prostate cancer. While inherited genetic factors account for a smaller proportion of overall cases, they are particularly important in identifying men who may benefit from earlier screening and closer monitoring.
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Can prostate cancer be found early?
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Yes. Prostate cancer can often be found early by testing the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in a man's blood. Another way to find prostate cancer is the digital rectal exam (DRE), in which the doctor puts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland.
How can I learn more?
