The cause of prostate cancer is not known. Studies have found or suggested the following risk factors for prostate cancer:

• Age: Age is the main risk factor for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is rarely seen in men younger than 45. The chance of getting it goes up as a man gets older. Most men diagnosed with prostate cancer are older than 65.
• Heredity: A man's risk is higher if his father or brother had prostate cancer.
• Race: Prostate cancer is more common in African-American men than in white men, including Hispanic men. It is less common in Asian and American Indian men.
• Diet: Studies suggest that men who eat a diet high in animal fat or meat may have an increased risk for prostate cancer. Men who eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may have a lower risk.