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Prostate Cancer Risk Factors You Can't Change

From About.com

Updated: December 21, 2005

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by V.K. Gadi, MD

Simply being who you are can put you at increased risk for prostate cancer. Here is a list of risk factors that you cannot control:

  • Gender (only males have prostates)
  • Family History (brother or father)
  • Age (over 55 the risk increases steadily)
  • Race (black males have a higher incidence)

Prostate screening consisting of a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) and a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test should happen annually once a man turns 50. If you are at increased risk the exams should start earlier in life.

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