It accounts for about 11 percent of male cancer-related deaths, making prostate cancer the second leading cause of cancer death in men. The American Cancer Society recommends an annual PSA blood test and DRE beginning at age 50. Men who are at high risk for prostate cancer may begin screening at a younger age, based on their physician's recommendation. While the causes of prostate cancer are not yet completely understood, researchers have found several factors that are consistently associated with an increased risk of developing this disease. The chance of having prostate cancer increases rapidly after age 50.
Prostate cancer is twice as common among African-American men as it is among white American men.
Having a father or brother with prostate cancer doubles a man's risk of developing the disease. There are other possible risk factors for prostate cancer that can be changed. A diet low in fat and consisting mostly of vegetables, fruits and grains is associated with reduced risk of prostate cancer. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight may also help reduce prostate cancer risk. While most cases of early prostate cancer cause no symptoms, some men with prostate cancer experience a slowing or weakening of the urinary stream or the need to urinate more frequently.