Prostate cancer: Google doesn’t have all the answers, 5 strong reasons you should get screened

The news about former US President Joe Biden’s diagnosis with advanced prostate cancer has spread like wildfire. It hits close to home, as prostate cancer is rising rapidly among Indian men, especially in urban areas. Prostate cancer is now the second most common cancer among men in India, accounting for nearly 7 percent of all male cancers.

According to the National Cancer Registry Program (ICMR-NCDIR, 2021), urban India has seen a 3–5 percent annual rise in cases over the past decade, says Dr Atul Goswami, Director, Urology & Uro Oncology, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi. “What’s more worrying is that projections suggest a 50 percent increase in the incidence by 2040. Despite being highly treatable when caught early, over 75 percent of cases in India are detected at an advanced stage. This delay is largely due to lack of awareness and poor screening habits,” he adds.

5 strong reasons you should get screened for prostate cancer:

Also read | Prostate cancer: Why it's the fastest-growing cancers among urban men in India, how to prevent it

• Early detection can save life: Early detection of this cancer is said to improve treatment outcomes. “The five-year survival rate for localised prostate cancer is almost 100 percen. The problem is, most men don’t get tested until symptoms appear, which often means the cancer has spread,” says Dr Goswami. Regular screening can detect prostate cancer before any signs are visible, giving patients more treatment options and better chances of survival.

• Shows no early symptoms: One of the most dangerous things about prostate cancer is it doesn’t always announce its arrival with symptoms. “Men may feel completely fine until the disease is quite advanced. When signs like frequent urination, blood in urine, or pelvic discomfort do show up, it’s often too late for simple treatment. This makes proactive testing crucial,” shares Dr Goswami.

• Above 50 or hereditary: Men over 50 and those with a family history are especially vulnerable. “Age and genetics are two of the biggest risk factors,” says Dr. Goswami. He recommends that all men over 50, and those younger with hereditary risk, begin annual screening. A simple test could provide a head start in the fight against the disease.

• Availability of advanced tools: Thanks to modern medical advancements, screening is neither painful nor complicated. “Tests like the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and the Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) are both quick and reliable. These tools have become standard in many health check-ups and are key to catching prostate cancer early," says Dr Goswami.

• Maintains quality of life: Detecting prostate cancer early doesn’t just save lives, it preserves quality of life. “Late-stage treatment often impacts urinary and sexual functions. Early intervention allows for less invasive procedures and better long-term outcomes. It's not just about surviving, it’s about living well,” he cautions.