Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, after skin cancer. It is estimated that one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.

While most cases are slow-growing and not likely to spread beyond the prostate, some forms of prostate cancer can be aggressive and spread quickly to other parts of the body.

Here are some factors that contribute to the development of aggressive prostate cancer:.

Age

Age is the most significant risk factor for prostate cancer. The risk increases with age, and most cases are diagnosed in men over the age of 65. Aggressive forms of prostate cancer are more common in older men.

Family history

Men with a family history of prostate cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease themselves. The risk is even higher for men with a family history of aggressive prostate cancer.

Race and ethnicity

Prostate cancer is more common in Black men than in men of other races. Black men are also more likely to develop aggressive forms of the disease and to be diagnosed at a younger age.

Hispanic men are also at a higher risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than non-Hispanic white men.

Diet

The role of diet in the development of prostate cancer is still being studied. However, some studies suggest that a diet high in red meat, dairy products, and saturated fat may increase the risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

On the other hand, a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may reduce the risk of the disease.

Obesity

Obesity is a risk factor for many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Men who are obese have a higher risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.

This may be because obesity leads to inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of cancer.

Smoking

Smoking is a risk factor for many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Men who smoke have a higher risk of developing aggressive forms of prostate cancer than non-smokers.

Exposure to radiation

Exposure to radiation, particularly in the pelvic area, can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. This can occur in men who have undergone radiation treatment for other types of cancer, such as bladder or rectal cancer.

Exposure to certain chemicals

Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those used in the manufacturing of pesticides and other industrial products, may increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Farmers, factory workers, and men who work in the chemical industry are at a higher risk of exposure to these chemicals.

Sexually transmitted infections

Some sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, may increase the risk of prostate cancer. These infections can cause inflammation in the prostate gland, which can contribute to the development of cancer.

Genetic mutations

Some men may inherit genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer. These mutations can be passed down from parents to their children.

Men who have mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, which are associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer in women, are also at a higher risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.