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Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men globally, especially those above the age of 50. It begins in the prostate, a walnut-sized gland found just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. This gland plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system by producing seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
In many cases, prostate cancer develops slowly and doesn’t show symptoms early on. But when it grows aggressively, it can spread beyond the prostate and become life-threatening. This makes early diagnosis, awareness, and timely treatment incredibly important.
Synopsis
A Real-Life Scenario
Mr Arvind Mehta, a 63-year-old from Jaipur, experienced difficulty while urinating and occasional pelvic discomfort. He assumed it was age-related. However, during a routine health check-up at Manipal Hospital Jaipur, his PSA levels came back elevated. A few more tests confirmed stage 2 prostate cancer. Thanks to early diagnosis, he underwent successful treatment and continues to lead a healthy life. His case is a perfect reminder that timely screening can save lives.
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
While there’s no single reason why prostate cancer occurs, several factors are known to increase a man’s risk:
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Age: Most cases are diagnosed in men over 50.
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Genetics: A family history of prostate or breast cancer increases the risk.
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Ethnicity: Men of African descent are at a higher risk.
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Hormonal imbalance: High testosterone levels may encourage tumour growth.
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Lifestyle: Diets high in fat and low in fibre may contribute to cancer development.
Symptoms You Should Not Ignore
In its early stages, prostate cancer may not cause noticeable signs. When symptoms do appear, they can include:
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Trouble starting or stopping urine flow.
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Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night.
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Weak or slow urinary stream.
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Blood in the urine or semen.
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Pelvic discomfort or lower back pain.
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Erectile dysfunction.
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Unexplained bone pain (seen in advanced stages).
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor, particularly if you're over 50 or have a family history of cancer.
Prostate Cancer Stages Explained
Understanding the prostate cancer stages is key to determining the best approach to treatment. These stages are classified based on how far the cancer has spread in the body.
Stage 1 Prostate Cancer.
At this stage, the tumour is small and confined within the prostate. It’s often discovered accidentally during a routine check-up.
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Symptoms: Usually, no symptoms at this point.
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Outlook: Most are treatable, often just monitored unless they show signs of growth.
Stage 2 Prostate Cancer Symptoms.
The cancer is still within the prostate but has grown larger than in stage 1. It may be felt during a rectal exam or seen through imaging tests.
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Symptoms may include:
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Difficulty urinating.
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Slight pelvic discomfort.
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Blood in urine.
Treatment often involves surgery, radiotherapy, or active surveillance.
Stage 3 Prostate Cancer Symptoms.
Cancer has begun spreading outside the prostate, possibly reaching nearby tissues such as the seminal vesicles.
Symptoms:
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Pain during urination or ejaculation.
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Constant pelvic or lower back pain.
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Erectile issues.
Treatment typically includes surgery combined with radiation or hormone therapy.
Stage 4 Prostate Cancer.
This is the most advanced stage, where the cancer has metastasised to distant organs such as bones, lymph nodes, or lungs.
Stage 4 prostate cancer symptoms:
Bone pain, especially in the hips or spine.
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Swelling in the legs.
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Fatigue and weight loss.
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Trouble urinating or controlling bladder and bowel functions.
Although not curable, treatment can manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis often begins with a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test. If levels are high, further testing may include:
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Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical examination to check prostate abnormalities.
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Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is examined for cancer cells.
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MRI/CT Scan: To determine the size and spread of the tumour.
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Bone Scan: To detect cancer spread to the bones.
At Manipal Hospital Jaipur, advanced imaging and diagnostic tools ensure accurate assessment and early detection.
Treatment Options at Manipal Hospital Jaipur
The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient’s age, general health, and preferences. At Manipal Hospital Jaipur, a team of experienced oncologists and urologists offer comprehensive care including:
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Active Surveillance: For low-risk, slow-growing tumours.
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Surgical Treatment (Radical Prostatectomy): Removal of the prostate gland.
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Radiotherapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
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Hormone Therapy: Slows the growth of cancer by lowering testosterone.
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Chemotherapy: For advanced stages where the cancer has spread.
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Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy: For resistant or recurrent cases.
The hospital’s multidisciplinary approach ensures patients receive the most appropriate and individualised treatment plans.
Can You Reduce the Risk?
Although prostate cancer cannot always be prevented, certain steps can lower the risk
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Maintain a healthy, balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and fibre.
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Limit red and processed meat.
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Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.
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Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
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Get regular screenings after age 50, or earlier if you have a family history.
Living a healthy lifestyle supports not only prostate health but also your overall well-being.
Conclusion
If you're a man over 50 or have a close relative who has had prostate cancer, it's wise to undergo routine screenings. Don’t ignore urinary or pelvic symptoms — even if they seem minor. Prompt testing and diagnosis at a trusted facility like Manipal Hospital Jaipur can lead to early detection and better outcomes.
Whether it’s early-stage or stage 4 prostate cancer, timely medical attention can make all the difference. Book an appointment now.
FAQ's
There’s no reliable home test. Medical screening, like PSA tests and DRE, is necessary.
Yes, especially in the early stages. Stages 1 and 2 often have excellent treatment outcomes.
Eat a healthy diet, stay active, maintain a healthy weight, and get screened regularly.
Yes. The PSA test is a key tool in early detection.
While no natural remedy can cure cancer, anti-inflammatory foods and antioxidants may help support overall health.
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