Men tend to ignore their health, often prioritizing work and family over personal well-being. While breast cancer awareness has gained global momentum, prostate cancer awareness still lags behind. Prostate cancer incidence has been rising exponentially and in another 20 years India is likely to catch up with the Western world in respect to its prevalence. In India, due to a lack of awareness and routine check-ups, prostate cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment more complex. There is an immense need of improving screening methods to diagnose this cancer in earlier stages.
If you’re over 50—or have a loved one in this age group—getting a regular prostate check-up can be a lifesaver. Here’s why:
Silent threat
Unlike other diseases that show clear warning signs, prostate cancer can be completely asymptomatic in its early stages. Many men feel fine and assume there’s no reason for a check-up. However, by the time symptoms like frequent urination, slowing urine stream or blood in urine develop, the cancer may have already progressed.
Annual screenings help catch the disease before symptoms develop, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Early detection
The earlier prostate cancer is detected, the higher the survival rate. According to global studies:
When detected early, prostate cancer has a nearly 100% five-year survival rate.
If diagnosed at a later stage, survival rates drop significantly.
With a simple PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test and a doctor’s physical evaluation, men can ensure they stay ahead of the disease and avoid late-stage complications.
Treatment is more effective when diagnosed early. If prostate cancer is caught early:
It can often be treated without surgery through active monitoring, medications, or minimally invasive procedures.
Even if treatment is needed, options like robotic surgery and radiation therapy offer excellent outcomes with fewer side effects.
However, delayed diagnosis limits treatment options, making the disease more challenging to manage.
Painless process
Many men avoid prostate check-ups due to fear or discomfort, but the reality is:
The PSA blood test is quick and painless—just like any regular blood test.
A Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), if needed, takes less than a minute and is performed by experienced doctors with utmost care.
A few minutes of screening could mean future good health.
Not just cancer
Even if cancer isn’t a concern, the prostate gland naturally enlarges with age. This condition, known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), can cause:
Frequent urination.
Interrupted sleep due to nighttime bathroom visits.
Weak urine flow or difficulty starting urination.
Approximately 60% of men in their 60s will suffer with BPH. A regular visit to a urologist would keep this condition under control.
Family history
Genetics play a crucial role in prostate cancer. If a father, brother, or uncle has had prostate cancer, the risk of developing it doubles. Men with a family history should start prostate screenings even earlier — by age 40. Knowing your family’s medical history and taking proactive steps can make a huge difference.
To consider
Many men live with unnecessary anxiety about their health. Instead of worrying, why not get tested and know for sure? A normal PSA result brings reassurance, while an early diagnosis allows for timely action.
Health awareness starts at home. By taking charge of their health, fathers, uncles, and grandfathers set a powerful example for younger men. Encouraging routine screenings today can help make preventive health a norm for future generations.
If you or a loved one is over 50, has urinary symptoms, or a family history of prostate cancer, schedule a screening today. It’s a simple step that can save lives, prevent complications, and ensure a healthy future.
(Dr. Santoshi Janardan Nagaonkar, Director Urology, Urological Oncology & Robotic Surgery at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital)
