A risk factor is something that increases the likelihood of developing a health condition. However, sometimes, the risk factors may never develop cancer, while others with no identified risk do. Nevertheless, knowing about your risk factors and consulting a doctor can be helpful. Here, we will discuss some top risk factors for prostate cancer.

1. Age
The risk of prostate cancer increases with age. As per reports, a majority of cases of prostate cancer are detected in people who are 65 years or older. Also, people of this age can experience several difficulties in suitably treating the cancer.

2. Race
This is one of the top risk factors for prostate cancer. People of African-American heritage are at a greater risk of prostate cancer. Chances of survival from treatment are bleak as compared to Caucasian men.

3. Family history
Sometimes, prostate cancer runs in the family; this is called familial prostate cancer. This type of ailment typically develops due to a combination of genes and lifestyle factors. Hereditary cancer, the one inherited from a family member, is rare and accounts for only 5% of the total cancer cases.
Hereditary prostate cancer generally occurs when mutations in the genes are passed down from one family member to another. This may be suspected if a family history includes any one of the following:

• Prostate cancer in three generations on the same side of the family
• Three or more first-degree relatives suffer from prostate cancer
• Two or more first relations, such as sibling, grandparent, son, uncle, or father, are diagnosed with this cancer

3. Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
Also known as HBOC, this is a condition characterized by DNA-mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. This increases the likelihood of breast and ovarian cancer in women.
Men with HBOC have a greater likelihood of developing an aggressive form of prostate cancer and should opt for regular screening. You can consult your medical practitioner to get tested and screened for prostate cancer.

4. Chemical exposures
Another one of the top risk factors for prostate cancer is exposure to certain chemicals. A few studies have suggested a potential connection between exposure to Agent Orange, a chemical used during the Vietnam War, and an increased risk of prostate cancer.

5. Inflammation of the prostate
Some doctors believe an inflammation of the prostate gland, a condition called prostatitis, may increase the risk of prostate cancer in men. This is because inflammation is commonly seen in samples of prostate tissue collected during the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

These are some of the top risk factors for prostate cancer. If you think you are at risk of developing this form of cancer, you must consult your doctor immediately.