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Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, affecting about 1 in 9 men (Is there genetic testing for prostate cancer?). With such prevalence, prospective parents often ask whether prostate cancer is hereditary. Understanding the genetic factors behind prostate cancer is important—especially for those considering IVF (in vitro fertilization) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to protect the health of their future child.

Genetics and Hereditary Prostate Cancer Risk

Genetics significantly influence prostate cancer risk. An estimated 58% of prostate cancer risk is determined by inherited factors, and family history is a major risk factor – “hereditary” prostate cancer (cases with multiple affected relatives or early onset) accounts for about 5–10% of all cases. Having one first-degree relative with prostate cancer roughly doubles a man’s risk, while two affected relatives increase it nearly fivefold (Is there genetic testing for prostate cancer?).

Scientists have identified specific gene mutations that heighten prostate cancer susceptibility. Notably, mutations in HOXB13 and the well-known BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are linked to significantly higher prostate cancer risk. However, most prostate cancers arise from a combination of many genetic variants, each with only a modest effect on risk (Is there genetic testing for prostate cancer?). Thus, even men with no family history can still inherit an elevated genetic risk for prostate cancer.

PGT and Genetic Testing to Reduce Inherited Risk

For couples using IVF, advanced genetic testing can now screen embryos for inherited cancer risks such as prostate cancer. Orchid’s whole-genome PGT allows couples to assess each embryo’s genetic risk for prostate cancer by evaluating both high-risk gene mutations and overall polygenic risk. This information enables parents to select an embryo with the lowest risk profile, reducing the chance of passing down elevated prostate cancer risk (Is there genetic testing for prostate cancer?). In this way, PGT empowers families to mitigate hereditary cancer risk and build a healthier future for their children. Discussing these concerns with clinicians and genetic counselors can often identify families at risk and allow further testing.