As men approach 50, prioritizing health becomes more crucial than ever. Among the essential health checks is a prostate screening, a key step in identifying and managing prostate cancer early. With cases on the rise, especially in younger men, understanding the risks, symptoms, and preventive measures can make all the difference.
Why Prostate Screening Matters
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. In India, the incidence is rising, with more aggressive cases being observed in younger age groups. Early detection through routine screenings can significantly improve survival rates and outcomes.
According to WHO data, prostate cancer accounted for about 37,948 cases in India in 2022, accounting for roughly 3% of the 14 lakh new cancer cases registered in the country. Experts warn that late diagnoses in India remain a significant challenge, unlike in countries like the U.S., where most cases are caught early.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland, a small gland in the male reproductive system. While it often grows slowly, aggressive forms can spread quickly if not detected and treated early. Symptoms might not appear in the initial stages, making regular screenings vital. Potential warning signs include:
Difficulty in urinating.
Frequent urination, especially at night.
Blood in the urine or semen.
Persistent pain in the hips, back, or pelvis.
What Happens During a Prostate Screening Exam?
A prostate screening exam is a simple yet effective process to detect potential issues early. It typically includes:
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test
A blood test measures PSA levels. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, but they can also be caused by other conditions like infection or inflammation.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
A doctor gently examines the prostate by inserting a gloved finger into the rectum. This allows them to feel for lumps, hard areas, or other irregularities.
Both tests are minimally invasive and quick, providing valuable information about your prostate health.
What If the Test is Positive?
Receiving a positive test result doesn’t automatically mean you have prostate cancer. Here’s what to expect:
Further Testing: If PSA levels are high or the DRE raises concerns, additional tests may be recommended, such as:
Imaging Scans: MRI or ultrasound to get a detailed look at the prostate.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the prostate to confirm the presence of cancer.
Consultation with Specialists: A urologist or oncologist will guide you through the findings and recommend the next steps based on the results.
Staging the Cancer: If cancer is detected, its stage (extent of spread) will be determined. Early-stage cancers are often localized, while advanced stages may have spread to other areas.
What Happens If You Delay the Screening?
Delaying prostate screening can have serious consequences:
Advanced Disease Progression: Without early detection, cancer may spread beyond the prostate, making it more difficult to treat.
Increased Mortality Risk: Late-stage prostate cancer significantly reduces survival rates compared to early-stage detection.
Aggressive Treatments: Advanced cancer often requires more invasive treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, which may have stronger side effects.
Reduced Quality of Life: Symptoms such as severe pain, urinary incontinence, or difficulty in mobility may arise in advanced stages.
Timely screening can help catch the disease early, allowing for less invasive treatments and better outcomes.
Understanding Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer progresses in stages, and its growth rate can vary:
Early-Stage Cancer
Often grows slowly and remains confined to the prostate. It may not require immediate treatment and can be monitored through active surveillance.
Advanced-Stage Cancer
Can spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or bones. This stage may require more aggressive treatments like radiation, surgery, or chemotherapy.
How to Handle a Positive Diagnosis
A prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but remember, you are not alone. Here’s how to navigate this challenging time:
Stay Calm and Informed: Learn about your diagnosis and treatment options. Knowledge will empower you to make confident decisions.
Discuss Treatment Plans: Options may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or newer treatments like immunotherapy. Consult with your doctor to choose the best course based on the cancer’s stage and your overall health.
Seek Support: Lean on family, friends, or support groups. Emotional support can help you stay positive throughout your journey.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Focus on nutrition, exercise, and stress management to boost your overall well-being and support recovery.
Reducing Risk Through Healthy Choices
In addition to screenings, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. These include:
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limiting red meat and high-fat dairy products.
Exercising regularly to maintain a healthy weight.
Avoiding smoking and reducing alcohol intake.
Prostate cancer is a serious condition, but it’s highly treatable when caught early. Screening is not just about detecting cancer—it’s about taking control of your health and securing your future. If you’re around 50 or have a family history of prostate cancer, now is the time to schedule that screening. Your health is worth it.
