Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, with more than 160,000 new cases diagnosed every year in the United States alone.

While prostate cancer is typically a slow-growing cancer and has a high survival rate, there are still risks associated with the disease, including a threefold increased risk of death from prostate cancer. In this article, we will explore the factors that can increase your risk of death from prostate cancer and what you can do to reduce this risk.

Age

As with many cancers, age is a significant risk factor for prostate cancer. The majority of cases are diagnosed in men over the age of 65, and the risk of death from prostate cancer increases sharply with age.

Men over the age of 75 are at the highest risk of dying from prostate cancer, with a threefold increased risk compared to men aged 55-59.

Family History

Having a family history of prostate cancer can also increase your risk of death from the disease.

Men who have a first-degree relative (father, brother, or son) who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer compared to men without a family history of the disease.

Race and Ethnicity

There are significant disparities in the incidence and mortality rates of prostate cancer among different racial and ethnic groups.

African American men are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and are more than twice as likely to die from the disease compared to Caucasian men. Hispanic/Latino and Asian/Pacific Islander men have lower incidence and mortality rates compared to other ethnic groups, although there are still differences within these groups depending on factors such as country of origin and socioeconomic status.

Stage and Grade of Cancer

The stage and grade of prostate cancer at the time of diagnosis are important factors in determining the risk of death from the disease.

Prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate gland or has a high Gleason score (a measure of the aggressiveness of the cancer) is more likely to be fatal. Men with advanced prostate cancer have a threefold increased risk of death compared to men with localized prostate cancer.

Comorbidities

Having other medical conditions, or comorbidities, can also increase the risk of death from prostate cancer. Men with heart disease, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses are more likely to die from prostate cancer than men without these conditions.

It is important for men with prostate cancer to manage any comorbidities and work with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Treatment Options

The treatment options for prostate cancer vary depending on the stage and grade of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. Surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy are all common treatments for prostate cancer.

However, certain treatments may be more effective for certain patients, and each treatment comes with its own risks and side effects. Men with prostate cancer should work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for their individual situation.

Prevention and Early Detection

While there is no sure way to prevent prostate cancer, there are steps that men can take to reduce their risk of developing the disease.

Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help to lower the risk of prostate cancer. Additionally, early detection is key to improving survival rates for prostate cancer.

Men over the age of 55 should talk to their healthcare provider about getting screened for prostate cancer, as early detection can lead to more effective treatments and better outcomes.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer is a serious disease that can have life-threatening consequences, particularly for men with certain risk factors.

However, there are steps that men can take to reduce their risk of death from prostate cancer, including managing comorbidities, working closely with their healthcare providers to develop a treatment plan, and taking steps to prevent and detect the disease early. By understanding the risk factors for prostate cancer and taking proactive steps to reduce those risks, men can take control of their own health and improve their chances of living a long, healthy life.