In Gujarat 80% Prostate Cancer Cases Diagnosed at Advanced Stages: Doctors Warn of Rising Incidence

Ahemadabad: Approximately 80% of all prostate cancer cases in Gujarat are diagnosed at advanced stages, making the disease difficult to treat. Doctors in the state are concerned about the rising trend. More commonly affecting men, the cancer has over 1.8 million victims worldwide. Factors affecting increase incidence of prostate cancer vary from increase in stress levels to inactive sexuality in men.

One of the astonishing reasons pointed out through research is the fact that less than 6 hours of sleep doubles the risk of prostate cancer in men increasing the risk to 55%. According to the Indian Cancer Registry, the statistics of prostate cancer have been estimated to increase by 220% by 2020. In addition to increasing physical inactivity and consumption of high trans-fat food, urban lifestyle with its hectic schedules and stress is increasing risk of cancer cases in the state.

“The cancer is responsible for the swelling of the gland near the prostate causing difficulty in urinating. It is common to witness the disease occurring in older population. But we are also seeing the trends coming in for younger population who are less than 40. This is troublesome as our lives have rapidly changed. Due to lack of time and perhaps resources, we often cannot afford to sleep and eat properly. While the repercussions of a bad diet are known, lack of sleep can cause reduced melatonin levels responsible for maintain the sleep cycle. Due to this, the body cannot prevent cancerous growth of the cells”, says Dr. Dhaval Rajde, Surgical Oncologist, Columbia Asia Hospital, Ahmedabad.

Examination and appropriate therapy at a right time can make the prostate cancer halt in its tracks. Advancement in technologies is being given through radiotherapy, chemotherapy or even a surgical procedure. Another therapy in trend is the hormone therapy responsible for monitoring the testosterone to a manageable level for maintaining balance.

Highlighting the importance of early detection, Dr Dhaval says, “It should be necessary for men to undergo a prostate checkup when they turn 50 because aging population have increased risk of prostate cancer. Urban men are more prone to cancer than rural men. This is because urban men lack the diet and the active lifestyle that is ever present in rural population. Men should not be ashamed to get themselves checked. If the examination is done after the blood already starts occurring in the urine, there might be some difficulties. Early stage prostate cancer can be contained in the body and stopping its growth is possible.”

Prostate cancer usually manifests with symptoms such as, burning sensation while urinating, blood in urine or semen, loss of bladder control, and swelling in legs of pelvic region. Once the symptoms are identified by a patient, it is important to consult the doctors without any delay.