Early Detection Is The Key: 4 Things You Should Know About Prostate Cancer
Joe Biden's diagnosis of prostate cancer has reignited attention toward one of the most overlooked yet second most common cancers among men globally. Often seen as a 'Western" disease, rising cases in India have largely flown under the radar. Urban registries show it's now among the top ten cancers in men, particularly in cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Pune, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Cultural taboos, stigma around men's health, and vague or absent early symptoms often keep men from speaking up or seeking help. This silence, paired with limited awareness, leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
1. Prostate cancer often shows no early symptoms
'Frequent urination, weak urine flow, or pelvic discomfort in men over 50 can sometimes be early signs of prostate cancer — not just ageing. The risk increases further with a family history or sedentary lifestyle. If you notice these changes, it is important to consult a doctor and understand your screening options," says Dr. Kaushal Kalra, Head of Department, Medical Oncology, VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi.
Many men are unaware they're at risk until the disease progresses. Early prostate cancer typically shows few, easily overlooked symptoms. That's why screening is essential.
Simple tools like the PSA blood test (which checks for prostate-specific antigen levels) or a digital rectal exam (DRE) can help detect potential issues early. These tests take just a few minutes and are available at health camps and government clinics. Just as women are encouraged to screen for breast or cervical cancer, men too need regular check-ups — especially after the age of 50, or earlier if risk factors are present.
2. Risk factors can help determine when to start screening
Age, family history, ethnicity, and obesity influence the risk of prostate cancer. Men above 50, or those with a father or brother who had prostate cancer, are more vulnerable. Some research also suggests that diets high in red meat or dairy may increase risk, though this is still being studied.
Despite these known risks, many Indian men remain unaware or reluctant to get screened. That's why it is critical for families, health workers, and doctors to normalize such conversations. Community health centers and local awareness drives can play a pivotal role in encouraging men to get screened, especially those in high-risk groups.
3. Early detection improves treatment outcomes and preserves quality of life
Fortunately, medical progress is making a difference but only when the disease is caught early. 'The treatment journey today looks very different than it did a few years ago. Precision medicine and integrative care are helping men live longer and better. But access to these options depends on how early we act," explains Dr Ashish Gawde, Medical Director – South Asia, Bayer Pharmaceuticals. 'Awareness, timely diagnosis, and the right support system can significantly shift the long-term impact of prostate cancer."
When diagnosed early, prostate cancer is often treatable. In some cases, immediate treatment may not be necessary. Early detection gives doctors and patients more treatment options — like minimally invasive procedures — which often mean shorter recovery times. More importantly, catching cancer early helps patients maintain a better quality of life throughout their care. Men can continue working, travelling, and staying active with minimal hindrance.
4. Treatment options range from less invasive procedures to advanced therapies
Contrary to popular belief, a prostate cancer diagnosis doesn't always involve chemotherapy or surgery. In many early-stage cases, doctors recommend 'active surveillance", a structured system of regular check-ups and monitoring without starting treatment. For more advanced stages, hormone therapies, radiation, and newer targeted treatments allow for greater precision and fewer side effects.
The key? Timing. The earlier the diagnosis, the broader the treatment choices.
So where do we go from here?
Talking openly about prostate health isn't just about awareness, it's about saving lives. By encouraging regular screenings and normalizing conversations around men's health, we empower individuals, families, and communities to take action early. Because when it comes to cancer, timing makes all the difference.
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First Published:
July 23, 2025, 07:47 IST
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