Prostate cancer is prevalent among males, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings. However, determining the optimal timing for undergoing screening is crucial.
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“Cancer, often deemed a formidable opponent, is indeed a curable disease. With regular screenings and awareness of symptoms, anyone can triumph over it. Prostate cancer stands out as one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men and ranks as the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Early detection through essential tests like the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test is pivotal for timely treatment. Waiting for symptoms to manifest is not sufficient. Thus, understanding when to undergo such screenings is crucial.”
Grasping the Risks Posed by Advanced Prostate Cancer
Globally, prostate cancer has seen over 1.4 million new cases and 375,000 deaths annually as of 2020.
In India, according to data from the Indian Journal of Urology (IJU), prostate cancer cases have risen from 26,120 in 2010 to 30,185 in 2020.
The disease arises when prostate gland cells undergo abnormal growth, forming tumors. Left untreated, it can metastasize to nearby tissues, exacerbating the disease burden.
According to MedicineNet, nearly all men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer have a life expectancy of over 5 years, while those with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer have lower survival rates.
Hence, early detection significantly improves survival rates.
Symptoms of Early-Stage Prostate Cancer
Common Symptoms of Prostate Cancer:
1. Difficulty or frequent urination
2. Weak urine flow
3. Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
4. Pelvic pain or discomfort
5. Presence of blood in urine or semen
6. Erectile dysfunction (ED)
7. Fatigue and weakness
8. Loss of appetite
9. Unintentional weight loss
10. Swelling in the legs or feet
What Does a PSA Test Entail
Dr. Gowshikk Rajkumar, a Consultant Oncologist at Apollo Clinic, clarifies that the PSA test serves as an initial screening measure for individuals suspected of having prostate cancer. He emphasizes that the level of prostate-specific antigen detected in the test results determines whether further diagnostic procedures are necessary to confirm the diagnosis or if close monitoring over time is sufficient.
Dr. Kunjan Lila, the Head of Surgical Pathology at Metropolis Healthcare, explains that PSA is a protein primarily found in prostatic tissue, with elevated levels commonly associated with various prostate conditions, including carcinoma. When PSA levels reach 4ng/ml, Dr. Lila recommends subsequent examinations such as digital rectal examination, transrectal ultrasonography, and tissue biopsy to reach a conclusive diagnosis.
What Is the Optimal Timing for Undergoing a PSA Test
Dr. Lila suggests initiating PSA screening at age 55, with earlier screenings recommended for those with a positive family history of prostate cancer. Early detection, while the cancer remains confined to the prostate gland, improves treatment success rates, she explains.
Besides age and family history, common risk factors include race (more prevalent in black men), and genetic predispositions such as a family history of prostate or breast cancer (BRCA1/BRCA2 related), as well as obesity. The Mayo Clinic also highlights that a diet high in animal fats and low in vegetables may elevate prostate cancer risk.
To mitigate these risks, individuals are advised to adopt a low-fat diet rich in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and bok choy.