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Increased awareness about prostate cancer

Samira Vishwas | August 1, 2026 11:24 AM CST

Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer has become the second most common cancer in Indian men. According to doctors, the challenge is not just the rising incidence of prostate cancer, but the delay in diagnosis is also a major concern. In Western countries, prostate cancer is detected at an early stage through regular screening, but in India, many patients reach a doctor when the cancer has spread beyond the prostate. In such cases, the cancer can reach the bones and spinal cord, increasing the risk of serious neurological problems.

Awareness has increased, but patients are still late for treatment.
“Previously, most prostate cancer patients came from large cities, but now a significant number of patients are coming from smaller towns as well. This is a sign of increased awareness, but many men still seek treatment after their disease has progressed significantly,” he said.

Prostate cancer can cause other problems.
Dr. Ashwin Malaya says that when prostate cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it can often affect the spinal cord. This can cause serious symptoms such as back pain, weakness in the legs, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, and loss of control over urination or bowel movements. These symptoms may indicate spinal cord compression, which is a medical emergency.

What signs should not be ignored?
Doctors say that persistent urinary problems, bone pain, or long-term back pain should not be ignored. If there is a family history of prostate cancer, earlier testing may be necessary. Early detection is the most effective way to prevent neurological damage from prostate cancer.

What tests should be done for early detection of prostate cancer?
According to Dr. Ashwin Malaya, prostate cancer can be treated very effectively if detected in the early stages. He said that the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test plays an important role in early detection of prostate cancer. If PSA levels are abnormal or cancer is suspected during the examination, tests like multi-parametric MRI and MRI-TRUS fusion biopsy are used. These tests help in accurate diagnosis of the disease. Dr. Malaya said that despite increased awareness, approximately 50 percent of prostate cancer patients are already in stage 4. At this stage, the disease can be controlled, but it is not possible to completely cure it.