Context: Former US President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive prostate cancer which has spread to his bones.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about Prostate cancer.
About Prostate Cancer
- Prostate cancer is a type of cancer (uncontrolled growth of cells) in the prostate gland, a small gland in the male reproductive system.
- Symptoms: Frequent need or difficulty to urinate. Blood in semen or urine. Painful ejaculation. Discomfort or pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvic area.
- Risk factors:
- Age: Most cases are diagnosed in men >50 years. The peak incidence is generally observed in men between 70-74.
- Family history or high-risk factors, such as poor lifestyle habits and obesity.
Treatment and Screening:
- Early-stage prostate cancer often presents no symptoms, which makes regular screening particularly important for at-risk individuals.
- Prostate cancer is highly curable if detected and treated early via options like surgery or radiation therapy. Even in more advanced stages, treatment can slow the cancer’s growth and extend life.
- Other treatment options include- hormone therapy which reduces testosterone (a hormone that fuels the cancer), Immunotherapy (approved only in some countries), and Radioligand therapy.
Tests for Prostate Cancer:
Prostate cancer is usually detected through blood tests (PSA tests) or rectal exams. Regular screening is advised between ages 45-50 and above for those with higher risk factors.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test measures PSA levels. Elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) is a physical exam where the doctor checks the prostate for irregularities via the rectum.
- Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) provides detailed imaging, and helps in identifying clinically significant tumors. MRI-Targeted Biopsy is more accurate than traditional biopsy.
- Genomic testing - identifies genetic mutations that help in assessing the aggressiveness of cancer and aids tailor made therapy.
Prevalence of Prostate Cancer:
- Global Prevalence: Over 1.4 million new cases annually worldwide (2014). Prostate is the 2nd most common cancer in men globally. Approximately 3.75 lakh deaths per year.
- Prevalence in India: Prostate cancer accounts for 3% of all cancers in India. Lack of screening is a matter of concern in India, where prostate cancer incidence is projected to double to about 71,000 new cases per year by 2040.