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Prostate Cancer is a growing concern for Indian men, especially in the urban population. According to the data provided by the National Cancer Registry Programme, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer around the world. It accounts for 54% of all the cancers detected in Indian males. India also ranks 4th in prostate cancer death rates.
So, what is prostate cancer?
This cancer develops and grows slowly in the prostate gland, which is a part of the male reproductive system. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body and becoming more serious and complicated.
The Department of Urology at Manipal Hospitals, Salt Lake, Kolkata, offers expert analysis and care for all prostate issues under the supervision of some of the best urologists in the country.
Synopsis
Prostate Cancer Symptoms
In the early stages, prostate cancer symptoms may not be evident. Noticeable symptoms can also mimic other conditions. Hence, it is important to check with a specialist and rule out any confusion. Symptoms that may occur include:
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Frequent urge to pass urine, especially at night (nocturia)
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Blood in the urine (also in the semen at times)
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Difficulty in urination
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Weak urine flow
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Pain or burning sensation during urination, or Pain in ejaculation
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Erectile dysfunction
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Pain in the hips, thighs and lower back
Prostate Cancer Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause behind prostate cancer is not yet known, but it generally develops when the prostate cells undergo genetic changes and start growing uncontrollably. Yet, a few factors can be attributed to the risk or development of the disease, such as:
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Family History: Having a close relative, like a father or brother, with the disease.
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Inherited Genetic Syndromes: These include BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations or Lynch syndrome.
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Inflammation and Cell Damage: Chronic prostatitis (long-term inflammation) may increase the risk of DNA changes.
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Genetic Mutation: DNA changes that activate genes can promote cell growth or deactivate tumour-suppressing genes.
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Hormonal Imbalance: High levels of androgen (male hormone), including testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), can stimulate prostate cell growth.
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Age: Risk of prostate cancer increases with age, especially after a man reaches 50 (though a recent trend of younger men being affected with a more aggressive form of the disease is observed).
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Diet: Excess intake of red meat and high-fat dairy products, while consuming less of fruits and vegetables.
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Lifestyle: Urban lifestyle including alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, sedentary habits, fast/junk food, stress and sleep deprivation.
Prostate Cancer Diagnosis & Detection
A combination of tests, reviews and examinations together can help detect or diagnose the disease. Early detection can improve treatment outcomes and aid in the effective management of the condition.
PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) Test
This is a type of blood test where higher levels can indicate the presence of conditions like prostatitis and enlarged prostate, or even prostate cancer.
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
This test is often done alongside the PSA test, and involves the doctor physically examining the rectum to detect any hard or irregular areas.
Prostate Biopsy
This is the gold standard for confirmation of malignancies and determination of the aggressiveness by examining the prostate tissue sample under the microscope.
Imaging Tests
These include MRI scan, Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS), CT scan, and Scintigraphy (bone scan) help diagnose, stage, as well as guide the process of biopsy.
TNM Staging
This helps in ascertaining the size and spread of the tumour inside the prostate, spread to the nearby lymph nodes, and metastasis or spread to distant organs and bones.
Prostate Cancer Treatment
The line of treatment for prostate cancer depends on several factors like the stage of the disease, aggressiveness of the tumour, overall health and preferences of the patient. Slow-growing cancers, when detected early, have higher survival rates and may not call for immediate treatment. They are better kept on close watch through regular monitoring. This is known as ‘Active Surveillance’.
Diagnoses made in the later stages require treatment in the best-suited mode. The most common ones include:
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Radical Prostatectomy (surgery): This involves the removal of the prostate gland.
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Radiation Therapy/Brachytherapy: High-energy rays are used to destroy the cancer-affected cells.
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Hormone Therapy: Growth of the tumour is slowed by reducing the levels of the testosterone hormone.
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Chemotherapy: Drugs are administered to kill the cancer cells when hormone therapy fails.
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Cryotherapy (freezing)/Thermal Therapy (heating): Using extreme temperatures to damage the affected cells.
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Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy: Newer concepts with the scope of personalised treatment for certain cases, like advanced or treatment-resistant cancers.
How to Prevent Prostate Cancer?
There is no proven formula to prevent prostate cancer, but certain lifestyle modifications and proactive health measures can help lower the possibilities and risk of developing the disease. One should:
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Choose Foods that are Low in Fat: Limit the intake of saturated or trans fats and opt for healthy/unsaturated fats like nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil. This may curb cancer risk and help with weight management and improved heart health.
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Fill the Plate with Fruits and Vegetables: Eat a well-balanced diet including plenty of fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and legumes rich in vitamins and minerals that are believed to lower the risk of prostate cancer.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water and healthy fluids to maintain the right level of hydration, but avoid sugary drinks.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight: Try to keep obesity at bay as excess body weight or fat has been linked to aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
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Be Active: Give up a sedentary lifestyle and keep the body moving with at least 30 minutes of exercise regularly.
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Quit Smoking and Alcoholism: Give up on tobacco and alcohol, as they are believed to increase the risk of aggressive prostate cancers.
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Manage Chronic Health Conditions: Keep hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol levels under control.
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Work out the Risk: Get regular screenings and assess the genetic predisposition.
Discover More Topics in Our Blogs: Bladder Control: Understanding Its Types, Causes & Treatments
Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a common illness in men, with some cases being slow in progression while a few being more aggressive in nature. Yet, prospects of effective treatment or management are high if the disease is detected at an early stage. Awareness, regular check-ups and lifestyle choices made carefully can be instrumental in preventing the disease or arresting its progression.
Consult a top Urologist in Kolkata at the Manipal Hospitals, Salt Lake, for early diagnosis of prostate cancer, expert care and effective treatments.
FAQ's
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder in men. It produces fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
It varies; some tumours grow slowly over years, while aggressive ones can spread quickly.
Yes, recurrence can happen months or years later, which is why regular follow-ups are important.
Stress alone does not cause it, but chronic stress may affect immunity and hormone balance, potentially influencing cancer growth.
Yes, there is an FDA-approved immunotherapy vaccine available for advanced prostate cancer, though it is not preventive like regular vaccines.
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