A normal prostate gland is smooth and firm, but not hard. The cause of prostate cancer is not yet known. However, doctors do know that certain factors increase the risk of getting the cancer. One factor is a family history of prostate cancer. If the patient has a father or brother with the disease, his chances of developing prostate cancer are two times greater.
Older men are also at greater risk.
Three-quarters of all reported cases occur in men age 65 and older. Race is another factor that affects one's risk. There is evidence that suggests that prostate cancer may be related to male hormone levels. Prostate cancer also may be related to environmental factors. As mentioned above, African Americans have one of the highest rates of prostate cancer in the world.