If prostate cancer has no symptoms in early stages, how will you know you have it?

Prostate cancer is among the most prevalent cancers in men, particularly above the age of 50. In India, prostate cancer has been increasingly reported, with the urban population being at a higher risk.

What makes this condition particularly risky is its silent progression during the initial stages. A lot of times, the symptoms might not appear until the cancer has advanced or spread, so early detection is important to achieve better outcomes.Understanding Prostate CancerThe prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland in the male that secretes seminal fluid. Prostate cancer occurs when cells within the prostate start to multiply uncontrollably.

Some prostate cancers grow slowly and will not do much damage, but others are fast-growing and will spread rapidly if left untreated.During its initial stages, prostate cancer normally does not result in pain or discomfort. This is since the tumour tends to grow slowly and stays within the prostate gland without involving surrounding tissues or leading to urinary symptoms, at least in the initial stages.If There Are No Symptoms, How Is It Detected?Early prostate cancer does not present with any symptoms, so regular screening becomes the only viable method of identifying it early. Two main tests are employed:Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: It is a straightforward blood test for the amount of PSA, a protein made by the prostate.

A high level of PSA can indicate prostate problems, such as cancer, although other problems like an enlarged prostate or infection are also likely to show high PSA.Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): When the doctor performs this test, he or she puts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to examine the prostate gland for any irregularities in the shape or size of the gland.Preventive Tips Even though prostate cancer can't always be prevented, certain lifestyle habits and awareness can lower your risk and aid early detection:1. Have regular screenings: If you are over 50 or 45 with a family history, be sure to speak to your doctor about having a PSA blood test and a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE).

These easy exams can spot alterations before you begin to have any symptoms.2. Eat a healthy diet: Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Antioxidant-rich foods such as tomatoes (lycopene), broccoli, and green tea can help promote prostate health. Red meat, processed foods, and high-fat dairy foods, which have been shown to raise cancer risk, should be minimized.3. Exercise regularly: Exercise not only aids in maintaining a healthy weight but also helps regulate hormones and the immune system, which have a role in lowering cancer risk.

Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking or cycling, most days of the week.4. Control your weight: Being overweight is linked with more virulent prostate cancers. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise may reduce your risk.5. Limit smoking and drinking: Smoking may contribute to overall ill health and the risk of cancer. Alcohol reduction or elimination can also decrease body inflammation.6. Stay up-to-date and discuss with your doctor: Regularly discuss prostate health with your medical doctor, particularly if you are in high-risk groups, such as having a history in your family or are over the age of 50.The silent progression of prostate cancer makes it a serious medical issue for men, especially older men, because prostate cancer at its early stages may not show any symptoms, and waiting for symptoms to appear before visiting a doctor can be a deadly risk. In later stages, the cancer may spread to the bones, lymph nodes, or other organs, resulting in such complications as bone pain, urinary blockage, and even kidney damage. In these cases, treatment measures such as radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or surgery (e.g., prostatectomy) might be required. That's why regular screening and consulting with the doctor makes all the difference.(Article courtesy: Dr. Vikas Choudhary, HOD & Consultant - Radiation Oncology, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi)