Cancer of the prostate gland is the second most common  Cancer in Indian males and it is sixth most common cause of cancer deaths. It occurs in the prostate gland of male reproductive system. While most of the prostate cancer is initially confined to the prostate gland and grows slowly , it may spread to other area of the body like adjacent organs, lymph nodes and bones.

It usually affects men in the age group of 60 years and above and rare below 40 years of age. It may occur in males between 40-60 years of age especially who have other patients withprostate cancer in the family. Prostate cancer usually doesn't cause any signs or symptoms in its early stages. In more advanced stage it may cause difficulty in passing urine, weak stream of urine, frequent urination, blood in urine or semen, backache, bone pain etc.

"It is essential to get a periodic preventive screening for prostate cancer as the symptoms are not very apparent at the initial stages. It is advised that all people above 60 years and people between 50-60 years with positive family history of prostate cancer should go for an annual PSA (blood test) or digital rectal examination for early diagnosis", says Dr Avneet Gupta, urologist and renal transplant surgeon, Precision Urology Hospital, Lucknow.

The treatment options and recommendations depend on several factors, including age, the stage of cancer and overall health of the patient. The commonly used modalities include surgical removal, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy and chemotherapy either alone or in combination.

 In absence of regular screening of prostate cancer in India, many patients come to us for treatment at an advanced stage of malignancy which becomes very challenging  for the treating doctor. We advise that regular check-up and consultation with doctors when there is a family history of  prostate cancer and/ or expression of symptoms, as prevention  is always better than cure.

While cancer can be frightening and cause a loss of will to live and fight, however, prostate cancer is a disease that can be treated if one pays attention to early symptoms. It is also very important to encourage regular prostate exams in people with a family history of this disease.