Causes of Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer Causes

Prostate cancer is a terrible disease that affects the lives of over 240,000 men annually. Prostate cancer is also responsible for over 33,000 deaths per year and one in six men will be diagnosed with it throughout their lifetime. Symptoms of the disease include delayed or strained urination, blood in the urine or semen and sometimes, bone pain in the pelvic region. Some men may also experience leg swelling as a secondary symptom.

Like many cancers, it's hard to pin down one exact cause for the disease. Many men that experience prostate cancer are over the age of 40, leading researchers to believe that age plays a role in the development of the disease. Additionally, genetics are believed to play a large part, as many men that develop prostate cancer have a history of cancer in their family. These genetic factors are often as a result of mutations within the genes that are passed on from one generation to the next. Black men are also more likely to develop prostate cancer than men of other races.

Aside from biological causes, there are a number risk factors that can also determine the likelihood of developing prostate cancer. Men that have worked around toxic chemicals, such as herbicides, are thought to be at an increased risk. As well, men that have had exposure to cadmium, including painters and tire plant workers, may have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

Finally, lifestyle choices play a large role in the development of the disease. Men that consume large amounts of fatty meats, as well as men that consume large amounts of alcohol, are more prone to prostate cancer development, but researchers are currently unsure of the direct correlation. Some studies have also linked obesity and smoking to the development of prostate cancer.

In order to prevent prostate cancer, it's important to lead a healthy lifestyle, maintain a balanced diet and have regular screenings performed by your doctor. There are also a number of natural supplements you can take that are specifically designed to support your prostate health. Natural supplements promote health in the prostate, the bladder, the urinary tract and the reproductive system in men, and most prostate support supplements are inexpensive. It is important to note that there is no known cure for prostate cancer, so if you have developed symptoms that you are concerned about, you should see your doctor to get tested.