What are the early symptoms of prostate cancer in India?

Early prostate cancer symptoms can include frequent nighttime urination, weak urine stream, or difficulty emptying the bladder, often mistaken for aging.

When should men in India get screened for prostate cancer?

Screening is usually recommended around age 50, or earlier (40-45) if there's a family history of prostate cancer.

Why is awareness about prostate cancer low in India?

Low awareness stems from men dismissing urinary symptoms as aging and cultural hesitations in discussing private health issues.

Home / Health / Prostate Cancer: Silent Threat Hiding in Aging

Prostate Cancer: Silent Threat Hiding in Aging

21 Jan

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Summary

Prostate cancer is the third leading male cancer in India.
Early symptoms often mimic aging or benign prostate issues.
Screening typically starts at 50, or 40-45 with family history.

Prostate Cancer: Silent Threat Hiding in Aging

Prostate cancer, a significant health concern in India and globally, ranks as the third most common cancer among men. This disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making it insidious. Globally, annual new cases are projected to increase as populations age, with studies showing a marked rise in incidence after age 50 and a concerning percentage diagnosed at advanced metastatic stages.

In India, low awareness and a cultural reluctance to discuss sensitive health issues contribute to delayed diagnosis. Symptoms like frequent nighttime urination or a weak stream are frequently dismissed as signs of aging or an enlarged prostate. This underestimation of symptoms means many individuals do not seek timely medical evaluation.

Medical experts emphasize that while benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) shares some symptoms with early prostate cancer, distinct signs like blood in urine or semen, persistent bone pain, and unexplained weight loss warrant immediate attention. Regular screening, typically starting at age 50 or between 40-45 for those with a family history, involving PSA tests and digital rectal exams, is crucial for early detection and effective treatment.