Prostate Cancer
Early Signs, Causes & Treatment
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers found in men, especially after the age of 50. In India, the number of men being diagnosed with this disease is rising, making awareness more important than ever.
The biggest challenge with this cancer is that it often grows silently in the early stages without any obvious signs. A man can feel perfectly healthy while the disease develops, which makes it very difficult to detect on your own. This is why regular medical check-ups after the age of 50 are so important. Finding this cancer early makes treatment much easier and more successful.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer starts in the prostate gland, which is a small part of the male body that helps make fluid for semen. Most prostate cancers grow slowly, but some can spread quickly if not treated. In the early stages, it often doesn’t show any symptoms, so regular check-ups are important.
In the past, not many people in India knew about prostate cancer because of less awareness and fewer check-ups. But now, more people are getting tested and finding out early. Around the world, it’s the second most common cancer in men. Doctors have known about it for a long time, with reports dating back to the 1800s.
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Types of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer starts when cells in the prostate gland grow out of control. The prostate gland is a small gland in men that helps make semen. There are different types of prostate cancer, but most are a type called adenocarcinoma.
⦿ Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type of prostate cancer. It starts in the gland cells of the prostate.
⦿ Small Cell Carcinoma: This is a rare type of prostate cancer that grows quickly.
⦿ Sarcoma: This is a very rare type of prostate cancer that starts in the muscle cells of the prostate.
⦿ Transitional Cell Carcinoma: This type of cancer usually starts in the bladder or urethra but can sometimes spread to the prostate.
⦿ Small Cell Carcinoma: This is a rare type of prostate cancer that grows quickly.
⦿ Sarcoma: This is a very rare type of prostate cancer that starts in the muscle cells of the prostate.
⦿ Transitional Cell Carcinoma: This type of cancer usually starts in the bladder or urethra but can sometimes spread to the prostate.
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
Doctors and scientists are still working hard to understand exactly what causes prostate cancer. It’s like a puzzle with many pieces! We know some pieces make it more likely to develop, but we don’t have the whole picture yet.
- Age
This is a big one. The older a man gets, the higher his risk of developing prostate cancer. Imagine a bell curve; it starts low, rises with age, and then goes down again.
- Family History
Just like some families have more brown-eyed members, some families have more cases of prostate cancer. If your dad, brother, or other close male relatives have had it, your risk might be higher.
Think of your body like a car. If you put in bad fuel and don’t take it for regular check-ups, it’s more likely to break down. Not eating healthy foods, not exercising enough, and being overweight can increase your risk.
- Genetics
Inside every cell of our body is a set of instructions called genes, passed down from our parents. Sometimes, these genes can have small changes (mutations) that might slightly increase the risk of prostate cancer.
- Hormones
Hormones are like chemical messengers in the body. High levels of certain hormones, like testosterone, might play a role in prostate cancer development.
- Inflammation
When our body fights off infection or injury, it can cause inflammation. Long-term inflammation in the prostate might be linked to an increased risk.
- Exposure to Certain Chemicals
Some studies suggest that exposure to certain chemicals, like those used in some pesticides or industrial settings, might be associated with a higher risk. However, more research is needed to confirm this link.
Prostate Cancer Symptoms
It’s important to know the symptoms of prostate cancer. Often, in the very early stages, there are no noticeable symptoms, making regular check-ups and screenings crucial. However, as the cancer progresses, certain signs may appear. Knowing what to look for can help with early detection.
Weak Stream
Having a weak or slow urine stream.
Difficulty Starting or Stopping Urination
Trouble starting to pee (hesitancy) or stopping once you’ve started (intermittency).
Urgent Need to Urinate
Feeling a sudden, strong urge to pee.
Dribbling
Leaking urine after you’ve finished peeing.
Having pain in your bones, especially in your back, hips, or thighs. This can happen if the cancer has spread to the bones (bone metastasis).
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Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
If prostate cancer is suspected, several tests are used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cancer’s extent. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment outcomes.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
During a DRE, the doctor feels the prostate for irregularities. This quick exam is often the first step but may require further testing.
The PSA test measures PSA levels in the blood, which can indicate cancer. Elevated levels require further investigation to determine the cause.
- Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS)
If results are abnormal, TRUS uses sound waves to image the prostate, helping to identify suspicious areas. This aids in guiding further diagnostic steps.
A biopsy involves taking tissue samples to check for cancer, and it’s performed if TRUS reveals suspicious zones. This remains the definitive method for confirming a diagnosis.
- Imaging Tests
After diagnosis, imaging tests, such as bone scans, CT scans, or MRIs, help check if the cancer has spread beyond the prostate. These tests are critical for accurate staging and treatment planning.
Genomic testing analyzes cancer cell genes to predict how the cancer might behave and respond to treatment. This allows for more personalized treatment strategies.
- Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI)
MpMRI provides detailed prostate images, aiding in pinpointing suspicious areas. It supports more accurate biopsy decisions, enhancing diagnostic precision.
- Prostate Health Index (PHI)
PHI is a blood test that combines various PSA forms to improve cancer detection, helping to assess biopsy needs. This test aids in making informed diagnostic decisions.
Prostate Cancer Treatment in India
India offers advanced prostate cancer treatments with skilled professionals. Here’s a look at available options:
Surgery
Radical prostatectomy removes the prostate, with open, laparoscopic, and robotic options available. Robotic surgery offers smaller incisions and quicker recovery.
See how robotic prostate cancer surgery is done in Ahmedabad.
High-energy rays kill cancer cells, using techniques like IMRT and IGRT for precision. Brachytherapy implants radioactive seeds into the prostate.
Lowers male hormone levels to slow cancer growth, often for advanced cases. Options include medications or orchiectomy.
Drugs kill cancer cells throughout the body, mainly for advanced cases not responding to hormone therapy. It can shrink tumors and improve life quality.
Targets specific molecules involved in cancer growth, offering more precision with fewer side effects. It’s for advanced cases with specific mutations.
Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer, showing promise for advanced stages. It can help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
- Stage-Wise Treatment Options in Prostate Cancer
This table provides an overview of treatment choices for prostate cancer, depending on how far the cancer has spread. It helps patients and caregivers understand possible treatment approaches at each stage.
| Cancer Stage | What It Means | Treatment Options |
|---|---|---|
| Stage I | Cancer is small, localized, and grows slowly |
- Active surveillance (regular monitoring) - Surgery (radical prostatectomy) - Radiation therapy |
| Stage II | Cancer is still within the prostate but may grow faster |
- Surgery - Radiation therapy - Hormone therapy (in some cases) |
| Stage III | Cancer has spread beyond the prostate to nearby tissues |
- Radiation with hormone therapy - Surgery (in selected cases) |
| Stage IV | Cancer has spread to distant organs (bones, lymph nodes, etc.) |
- Hormone therapy (ADT) - Chemotherapy - Targeted therapy or immunotherapy (if eligible) |
Prostate Cancer Prevention
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, you can take steps to reduce your risk. Here are some strategies:
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may lower your risk. Limit red meat and high-fat dairy products for better health.
- Regular Exercise
Physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce cancer risk. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of prostate cancer. Strive to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
- Talk to Your Doctor About Screening
Discuss prostate cancer screening with your doctor, especially if you have risk factors. Early detection can improve treatment outcomes.
- Consider Lycopene-Rich Foods
Lycopene, found in tomatoes, may offer some protection against prostate cancer. Include tomatoes and other lycopene-rich foods in your diet.
- Limit Calcium Intake
Some studies suggest high calcium intake may increase prostate cancer risk. Talk to your doctor about appropriate calcium levels for you.
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Written by
Dr. Swati Shah
MS, DrNB (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Swati Shah is a Robotic Uro and Gynecological Cancer Surgeon in Ahmedabad.
Reviewed by
Dr. Harsh Shah
MS, MCh (G I cancer Surgeon)
Dr. Harsh Shah is a renowned GI and HPB Robotic Cancer Surgeon in Ahmedabad.
Last Updated on 1 month by Dr Harsh & Swati Shah