A nurse is screening a client for cancer risk factors. The nurse records that the client is a 65-year-old male, clinically obese with a BMI of 31, has a history of past smoking, and drinks moderately. Which of the following is a primary risk factor for prostate cancer?

Rationale: A. Advancing age is the primary risk factor for prostate cancer. The majority of prostate cancer cases occur in men over age 50, with risk increasing significantly after age 60 due to cumulative genetic mutations and hormonal changes that occur with aging. Thus, the client’s age of 65 years places him at high risk. B. While excessive alcohol use may contribute to some cancers (such as liver or esophageal), moderate alcohol intake is not a major risk factor for prostate cancer. C. Although smoking increases the risk for lung, bladder, and pancreatic cancers, there is no strong association between smoking and the development of prostate cancer. D. Being male is a biologic necessity for developing prostate cancer, but it is considered a basic predisposing factor, not a primary risk factor. The primary modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors (such as age, family history, and race) determine who among males is at highest risk.