New Delhi: Prostate cancer is on the rise across the globe. In India, prostate cancer accounts for about three per cent of all the cancers reported in the country, with an estimate 33,000 to 42,000 fresh cases diagnosed every year. Moreover, a large proportion of people being detected in the country are diagnosed in the advanced stages which means that the cancer has spread at the time of diagnosis.
Dr Ajay Shah, Managing Director, of Neuberg Ajay Shah Laboratory told News9, “Prostate cancer is a significant health concern for men, particularly as they age. Proactive prostate health, including regular screening, plays a crucial role in early detection and successful treatment. Understanding prostate cancer screening can help men make informed decisions about their health.”
The Importance of Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not exhibit symptoms until it is advanced. Early detection through screening can identify cancer at a more treatable stage, improving outcomes and survival rates. Screening is particularly important for men over 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer, as they are at higher risk.
Key Screening Methods
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood, a protein produced by both cancerous and non-cancerous tissue in the prostate. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they can also be caused by other conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. Regular PSA testing helps track changes over time, which can be more indicative of potential issues than a single elevated result.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): During a DRE, a healthcare provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate for abnormalities, such as lumps or hard areas. While less specific than the PSA test, the DRE can detect abnormalities that might not elevate PSA levels, providing additional diagnostic information.
Benefits and Risks of Screening
Benefits:
Early Detection: Identifies cancer before symptoms appear, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Monitoring: Helps track prostate health over time, especially for those at higher risk.
Peace of Mind: Regular screening can provide reassurance for men concerned about their prostate health.
Risks:
False Positives: Elevated PSA levels can lead to unnecessary worry and additional tests, such as biopsies, which have their risks.
Overdiagnosis: Detecting slow-growing cancers that may not cause problems in a man’s lifetime can lead to overtreatment, including surgery or radiation, which have significant side effects.
False Negatives: Normal PSA levels do not always rule out prostate cancer, potentially providing false reassurance.
Making Informed Decisions
Men should discuss prostate cancer screening with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions based on their individual risk factors and preferences. Factors to consider include age, family history, race (as African American men have a higher risk), and overall health.
Advances in Screening
According to Dr Shah, “Recent advances in screening, such as the development of new biomarkers and improved imaging techniques, are enhancing the accuracy and reducing the risks associated with prostate cancer screening. These advancements aim to differentiate more effectively between aggressive and indolent cancers, guiding more tailored treatment decisions.”
“Proactive prostate health involves understanding the importance of screening and staying informed about the latest developments. By engaging in regular screening and discussions with healthcare providers, men can take charge of their prostate health, leading to earlier detection, better outcomes, and improved quality of life,” added Dr Shah.
Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not exhibit symptoms until it is advanced. Early detection through screening can identify cancer at a more treatable stage, improving outcomes and survival rates. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
