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Hereditary Prostate Cancer Risk

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Prostate Cancer > Cancer Risks

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Cancer Risk

What is cancer?

The is a small gland that is part of the male reproductive system. It is located in the pelvis, below the bladder and near the rectum. cancer is one of the most common types of cancer that occurs in men and people assigned male at birth. 

Who is at risk for cancer?

All people assigned male at birth are at risk for cancer; the risk varies based on multiple factors, including:

  • age
  • race: Black people have the highest risk for cancer of any group
  • presence of an
  • personal and family history of cancer

Factors such as diet, weight, exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption and environmental exposures have been studied for their effect on cancer risk with mixed results. More research is needed to understand how much these factors influence cancer risk.

In the News

Genes linked to aggressive prostate cancer

Study : Genes linked to aggressive prostate cancer

Previous research has linked some inherited mutations to prostate cancer risk. This study found a link to additional genes that should be added to prostate cancer gene panel tests. The...


Is cancer hereditary? 

About 10% of people with cancer have an linked to increased cancer risk. Genetic counseling and testing can help people learn if they are at high risk. Inherited mutations in the genes below increase the risk for cancer and can cause cancer to run in families. 

Genes Linked to Prostate Cancer Risk
*BRCA1, BRCA2 and HOXB13 have been linked to aggressive, metastatic disease.  
** More research is needed to confirm a link between prostate cancer and an inherited mutation in this gene.
Other genes not listed here may also increase the risk for prostate cancer. 
 

Learn about cancer risk management and treatment

Learn about Risk Management Options

National expert guidelines for cancer risk management vary based on gene mutation and other factors that affect risk. Click on the button below to learn more about these guidelines.

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Learn about Treatment Options

People diagnosed with cancer may have different treatment options based on , grade, and genetic and results. Click on the button below to learn more about these treatment options.

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Last updated September 05, 2024