The prostate is a small gland in the shape of a walnut that plays a vital role in male reproduction. Prostate cancer is a prevalent form of cancer that affects the prostate gland, but it is extremely curable in its early stages. In its advanced stage, cancer spreads to other organs and kills the sufferer.

Common sites of infection in prostate cancer include the rectum, bones, and bladder. In its mature stages, however, it can also harm the liver, lungs, and lymph nodes.

What is prostate cancer?

Dr. Niren Rao, senior urologist at Delhi Urology Hospital and an expert in providing Prostate Surgery in Delhi, has discussed all about prostate cancer in this article. He also shares ‘prostate cancer is cancer that grows in the prostate gland. It is the second-dominant cause of cancer losses in men’. Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland and extends to the seminal vesicles. These cancer cells escape from a prostate tumor and can spread as they can pass via lymph nodes or blood vessels to get to other body areas. Cancer cells may adhere to other tissues and grow to form new tumors after spreading, causing damage where they land. When prostate cancer spreads from its initial place to another part of the body, the new tumor has the same type of abnormal cells and has the same name as the old tumor.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer generally has no symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do emerge, they may resemble those of an enlarged prostate. Prostate cancer can sometimes create symptoms that are unrelated to BPH. Symptoms of prostate cancer can be:

1. Pain in the lower pelvic area

2. Abnormally frequent urination

3. Difficulty urinating, pain, burning, or weak urine flow

4. Blood in the urine (Hematuria) 

5. Painful ejaculation

6. Pain in the lower back 

7. Anorexia

8. Weight loss

9. Pain in the bones.

5 Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer

1. A weak or sluggish urine flow.

As they age, most people with a prostate have difficulty urinating; however, this is typically not because of prostate cancer. If one has a weak or slow urine flow, or if their urine flow starts and stops without their control, it is still a good idea to have the prostate tested.

1. Recurring urge to urinate.

It is critical to pay attention if someone develops a regular and occasionally urgent need to urinate, particularly at night. This is because a prostate tumor can exert pressure on the bladder and urethra.

1. Urination that hurts or burns.

While urinary tract infections are the most common cause of this condition, also known as dysuria, it can occasionally be a sign of prostate cancer.

1. Urine with blood

Another potential prostate cancer warning sign is hematuria, or blood in the urine. It is worth getting checked out, even though this may be related to other medical conditions, such as a urinary tract infection.

1. Male genital soreness

Pain in the area of the prostate, especially when sitting, is a rare but early sign of prostate issues. Only a urologist can surely tell if this is a sign of prostate cancer.

How is Prostate Cancer Treated?

Dr. Niren Rao, Best Urologist in Delhi, is known for providing the most advanced technology for quick recovery and offers the following treatment for prostate cancer. 

1. Radical Prostatectomy (Surgery) for Prostate Cancer - There are three types of radical prostatectomy surgery:

(a) Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy (RALP): It is the most common type of prostate cancer surgery done nowadays. Through microscopic tubes positioned in the belly, it also enables the removal of the prostate.

(b) Retropubic Open Radical Prostatectomy: The surgeon will make a cut in the lower side of the abdomen and remove the prostate through this opening. The surgeon can evaluate the prostate gland and surrounding tissue at the same time, minimizing harm to other organs. If there is severe blood loss, a transfusion may be required.

(c) Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: During this surgery, small cuts are made in the abdomen area, and the prostate is removed using a camera and small tools. This procedure has largely been replaced by robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery.

1. Radiation Therapy

High-energy rays are used in radiation therapy to kill or slow cancer cells' growth. In place of surgery, radiation can be used as the main treatment for prostate cancer. If the cancer is not fully removed or if it returns after surgery, it can also be used. Photon or proton beams are commonly used in radiation therapy. They convey a very low radiation charge and mass and can disperse into nearby healthy tissue. Instead, proton beams have more charge and a heavier mass and can attack deep tissue. A physician can administer proton radiation treatment to the particular site of cancer, minimizing damage to nearby healthy tissue. 

1. Hormonal Therapy or Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT)

Hormonal treatment is also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). It uses medications to inhibit testosterone and other male sex hormones that drive cancer. ADT significantly lowers testosterone synthesis in prostate cancer cells. Malignancies that have progressed or returned after having the first local aggressive therapy are treated with ADT to inhibit their progression. Additionally, it is applied briefly before, during, and following radiation therapy. Hormone therapy is done surgically or with medication. 

1. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is used for the late stages of prostate cancer. The drugs circulate in the bloodstream. They attack both malignant and non-cancerous cells because they kill any quickly growing cell. The dose and frequency are carefully managed to decrease the possibility of negative effects.

Diet to include if one has Prostate Cancer

1. Vegetables. Cooked tomatoes (ideally with olive oil) and cruciferous vegetables  broccoli and cauliflower) should be incorporated. Several fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants provide health benefits by eliminating free radicals. Free radicals can assault and permanently impair the function of healthy cells.

2. Fat. Try to limit the quantity of fat you consume from red meat and dairy items. According to multiple studies, saturated fat consumption is connected with an increased risk of developing advanced prostate cancer. However, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (the "good fat" found in salmon) may be associated with a lower risk. It has been demonstrated that processed meats containing nitrates and charred meat have cancer-causing characteristics. Select instead fish, lean poultry, or plant-based proteins like nuts and beans.

3. Vitamins. Instead of relying on vitamin pills, try to receive your vitamins from dietary sources, such as a diet rich in vegetables and whole grains. In particular, avoid excessive calcium replacements. Calcium-rich plant foods include dark green leafy vegetables, soy, and almonds.

Make a visit now at Delhi Urology Hospital to learn more about prostate cancer in detail and cost of prostate cancer treatment in Delhi.