The cause of this cancer is not established but hormonal, genetic, environmental and dietary factors are involved in some cases. The male sex hormone testosterone aids the growth of prostrate cancer cells. Risk increases with age more rapidly than any other cancer. Men who have a history of prostate cancer in their family, especially a close relative such as father, brother etc are at an increased risk. Racial predisposition is another factor, incidence of prostrate cancer is highest in Blacks and lowest in Asians.

Inhalation or ingestion of chemicals such as cadmium, a mineral found naturally in certain foods and cigarette smoke, plastics, paints, nickel cadmium batteries etc increases the risk for developing prostate and lung cancer.

People involved in battery manufacture, welding, soldering, manufacture of paint, plastic, cadmium alloy, textile etc are at high risk. A diet high in animal fat also has been implicated in the development/increased risk of prostate cancer.