For men, prostate cancer is a serious health risk, particularly as they get older. It is the second most common cancer among men worldwide, and in India, the incidence is rising. Unfortunately, awareness about prostate cancer in India is relatively low. Early detection and timely treatment can make a substantial difference in outcomes, potentially saving lives. This article aims to provide essential information to men about this disease, focusing on the importance of screening and early diagnosis.
Understanding prostate cancer
The prostate is a little gland situated in front of the rectum and beneath the bladder. It yields a fluid that is a component of semen. Uncontrolled cell growth in the prostate gland leads to prostate cancer. Early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms, making regular screening crucial.
Risk factors
Prostate cancer is more likely to develop under certain situations. Age is the most significant, with men over 50 being at higher risk. Family history also plays a role; men with a father or brother who had prostate cancer are more likely to develop the disease and should consider starting screening earlier than the general population. Additionally, certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can increase risk. Ethnicity also plays a role, with African and African-American men at higher risk.
Importance of screening
Screening for prostate cancer involves testing for elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood and conducting a digital rectal exam (DRE). Elevated levels of PSA, a protein secreted by the prostate gland, may be a sign of cancer. However, not all elevated PSA levels are due to cancer; they can also be caused by benign prostate conditions.
Recent advancements in screening techniques, such as multipara metric MRI and genetic testing, have improved the accuracy of prostate cancer detection.
Early diagnosis and treatment options
Early diagnosis of prostate cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and potential cure. If detected early, the cancer is often confined to the prostate gland, and various treatment options are available, including surgery, radiation therapy, and others. The treatment approach depends on the risk and stage of the disease, with early stages being potentially curable.
Robotic-assisted surgery has revolutionized the treatment of prostate cancer. Minimally invasive options provide excellent cancer control with better outcomes in terms of incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
What men need to know
As men, it is essential to prioritize your health and set an example for your loved ones. Regular health check-ups, including prostate cancer screening, should be part of your routine. Discuss your family history with your doctor, as it can influence your risk and screening recommendations. Men with a family history of prostate cancer should consider starting screening earlier than the general population.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer awareness, coupled with early detection and advances in treatment, makes managing the disease more effective. Men need to be proactive about their health, understand the risk factors, and engage in regular screening. Early diagnosis can lead to successful treatment and a better quality of life. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from prostate cancer.
(Author: Dr. B M Zeeshan Hameed, Consultant Urology, KMC Hospital, Mangalore)
