How is individual risk for prostate cancer assessed?

Both genetic and nongenetic factors are important in the etiology of prostate cancer. African Americans and men with a positive family history of the disease are at relatively high risk for prostate cancer. A growing body of evidence now indicates that diets high in animal fat appear to increase risk. Other dietary factors may confer protection, but these require more study. Occupational factors, smoking, and physical activity level do not appear to be major determinants of prostate cancer risk.