Breaking the silence on prostate cancer: From early signs to life-saving screening

Prostate cancer is a common occurrence in men above 60. However, currently, those in the age group of 45-50 who are now suffering from it. It is possible to manage this with the help of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer and the sixth leading cancer that causes death among men, worldwide. In 2020, there were an estimated 1.4 million new prostate cancer cases, causing 3,75,000 deaths. Nine among 1, 00,00 men have prostate cancer in India, which shows an increasing trend every year. Prostate cancer cases are rising at an alarming rate in the country. This cancer begins in the gland cells of the prostate .The prostate is located just below the bladder, is the size of a walnut, and surrounds the urethra. The risk factors for this cancer are age, genetics, and diet, a diet high in fats and meat, smoking, and obesity are all linked to prostate cancer. The symptoms are frequent urination, blood in the urine and semen, burning sensation while urination. Hence, timely screening for prostate cancer will help to improve patient outcomes.

Understanding the screening for prostate cancer: Prostate cancer is screened using tests such as Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test and Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). A prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) test is carried out to examine the level in the blood. Prostate cancer screening should be done as per the urologist’s advice. A digital rectal exam (DRE), is a medical test that helps to look for abnormalities in your rectum, anus, and prostate gland. Other vital tests are biopsy, transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bone scan, and PET scan.

The treatment: This cancer involves radical prostatectomy which is done to remove the prostate gland and its surrounding glands to manage it. Apart from this, the patient will be advised radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or even hormonal therapy.

Timely detection of prostate cancer is the need of the hour: Go for regular health check-ups and follow-ups as advised by the expert.

It is necessary to take charge of prostate health without any further delay just like you take care of your heart and respiratory health. Moreover, one should adopt preventive measures such as a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking and alcohol. Do PSA and DRE yearly after the age of 50 or early if family history is positive.

Important thing to note is to consult a urologist before coming to any conclusion and follow up for the urinary complaints.

Dr Vikas Bhise, Consultant Urologist and Transplant Surgeon, Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai