Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. Early detection plays a vital role in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. Despite its importance, many men avoid screening due to misconceptions and myths surrounding prostate cancer tests.
Dr. Tushar Aditya Narain, a leading Prostate Cancer Specialist in Gurgaon and experienced Prostate Cancer Robotic Surgeon at Max Hospital, emphasizes the need for awareness and evidence-based decision-making when it comes to prostate health. This blog addresses some of the most common myths about prostate cancer screening and provides accurate information to help men make informed choices.
Myth 1: “Prostate Cancer Only Affects Older Men”
Many men believe that prostate cancer is only a concern after the age of 60. While the risk does increase with age, men in their 40s and 50s are not immune.
Fact: Prostate cancer can develop in men as young as 40, especially if there is a family history of the disease.
Expert Advice: Dr. Tushar Narain, a trusted Prostate Cancer Specialist in Gurgaon, recommends that men with high-risk factors begin screening earlier—often around age 40–45.
Myth 2: “PSA Testing is Painful or Dangerous”
Some men avoid PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) testing because they fear pain or complications.
Fact: PSA testing is a simple blood test that measures PSA levels in the blood. It is safe, quick, and helps detect potential prostate abnormalities early.
Importance: While an elevated PSA doesn’t automatically indicate cancer, it serves as an early warning that further evaluation may be necessary.
Expert Tip: Paired with a digital rectal exam (DRE), PSA testing provides a comprehensive screening for prostate health without significant risk or discomfort.
Dr. Narain, as a Prostate Cancer Robotic Surgeon at Max Hospital, also uses PSA results to determine the best course of treatment, including robotic-assisted surgery if needed.
Myth 3: “If I Feel Fine, I Don’t Need Screening”
Many men assume that absence of symptoms means everything is fine.
Fact: Early-stage prostate cancer often shows no noticeable symptoms. By the time symptoms appear—such as difficulty urinating, blood in urine, or pelvic pain—the cancer may have progressed.
Expert Advice: Routine screening, guided by a Prostate Cancer Specialist in Gurgaon, can catch cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
Myth 4: “PSA Testing Always Leads to Unnecessary Treatment”
Some men fear that an elevated PSA will automatically lead to surgery or aggressive treatment.
Fact: An elevated PSA does not always indicate cancer. Conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis can also raise PSA levels.
Next Steps: Dr. Narain emphasizes personalized evaluation, including repeat PSA testing, imaging (like MRI), and biopsy if necessary, before recommending treatment.
Active Surveillance: In some cases, especially for low-risk cancers, monitoring the condition without immediate treatment is a safe option.
Myth 5: “Screening Can Be Avoided if I Live a Healthy Lifestyle”
While diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices are important for overall health, they cannot replace screening.
Fact: Even healthy men with no symptoms can develop prostate cancer. Lifestyle reduces risk but does not eliminate it.
Recommendation: Men should combine a healthy lifestyle with routine PSA testing and DRE to ensure comprehensive prostate care.
Myth 6: “Only Men with Symptoms Need a Urologist”
Some men think a specialist is only necessary when problems arise.
Fact: Consulting a Prostate Cancer Specialist in Gurgaon early helps establish a baseline for PSA levels and prostate health.
Expert Advice: Dr. Tushar Narain, a leading Prostate Cancer Robotic Surgeon at Max Hospital, encourages men with elevated PSA or risk factors to seek professional guidance. Early intervention often results in better outcomes.
Benefits of Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate cancer screening provides several advantages:
Early Detection: Detects cancer before symptoms appear.
Better Treatment Options: Early-stage cancers can often be treated less invasively, including robotic-assisted procedures.
Peace of Mind: Normal PSA results reduce anxiety about prostate health.
Customized Care: Enables specialists like Dr. Tushar Narain to monitor trends over time and personalize follow-ups.
When to Consult Dr. Tushar Aditya Narain
Prostate health is a crucial aspect of men’s overall well-being, and early detection of prostate issues can dramatically improve treatment outcomes. Men experiencing risk factors, elevated PSA levels, or urinary changes should consult a specialist promptly. Waiting until symptoms become severe can limit treatment options and reduce the effectiveness of therapy.
Dr. Tushar Aditya Narain is a expert Prostate Cancer Robotic Surgeon at Max Hospital, known for his comprehensive approach to prostate and urological health. He combines advanced diagnostic techniques, cutting-edge surgical methods, and personalized care to provide the best outcomes for his patients.
Why Early Consultation Matters
Accurate Diagnosis: Early consultation allows for timely PSA testing, digital rectal exams (DRE), and imaging studies. Dr. Narain ensures that elevated PSA levels or abnormal findings are accurately evaluated.
Customized Treatment Plans: Every patient is unique. Dr. Narain tailors treatment strategies based on age, overall health, cancer stage, and patient preferences.
Minimally Invasive Options: As a specialist Prostate Cancer Robotic Surgeon at Max Hospital, Dr. Narain uses robotic-assisted procedures that reduce complications, minimize pain, and speed up recovery.
Preventive Guidance: Beyond treatment, he provides advice on lifestyle, diet, and preventive measures to maintain prostate health and reduce future risks.
Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments help track PSA trends, detect recurrence early, and adjust care plans as needed.
Signs You Should Not Ignore
Men should seek consultation if they experience any of the following:
Persistent difficulty in urination or weak urine flow
Blood in urine or semen
Pain or discomfort in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
A family history of prostate or urological cancers
Even if symptoms are mild or intermittent, early consultation with a Prostate Cancer Specialist in Gurgaon can make a significant difference in long-term outcomes.
Comprehensive Care Offered by Dr. Tushar Narain
Patients consulting Dr. Narain benefit from:
Advanced PSA Interpretation: Accurate assessment of PSA trends, age-specific thresholds, and risk stratification.
Robotic-Assisted Minimally Invasive Procedures: State-of-the-art robotic surgery for prostate cancer and other urological conditions, ensuring precision and reduced recovery time.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Individualized approaches that consider both medical and lifestyle factors.
Holistic Patient Support: Counseling, preventive strategies, and lifestyle modifications to improve overall health.
Access to Multidisciplinary Care: Collaboration with radiologists, oncologists, and nutritionists for complete cancer management.
Schedule a Consultation
Taking proactive steps toward prostate health is essential. Men at risk, or those with elevated PSA or urinary symptoms, are encouraged to consult Dr. Tushar Narain without delay. Early evaluation ensures timely intervention, better treatment options, and improved quality of life.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit the official page: Dr. Tushar Narain – Prostate and Urological Cancer Specialis
Conclusion
Prostate cancer screening is a critical component of men’s health. Misconceptions and myths should not prevent men from taking proactive steps.