Understanding Prostate Cancer: Diagnosis, Risk Factors, and Treatment Approaches
On April 7, 2025, India Today featured an insightful article by Dr. Tushar Aditya Narain, a renowned Principal Consultant in Uro-Oncology & Robotic Surgery at Max Healthcare, New Delhi. With an impressive background that includes an MBBS, MS, MCh (Urology) and a Fellowship in Robotic Pelvic Uro-Oncology from London, UK, Dr. Narain is at the forefront of advanced urological cancer treatments in India. His article sheds light on prostate cancer, emphasizing its diagnosis, risk factors, and modern treatment strategies.
Prostate Cancer: A Growing Concern
Prostate cancer is among the most prevalent cancers affecting men worldwide, and its incidence is rising in India due to increasing life expectancy and lifestyle changes. Dr. Narain highlights the importance of early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Diagnosis: The First Step Towards Effective Treatment
Dr. Narain stresses the significance of regular screenings, particularly for men over 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer. The key diagnostic tools include:
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – A blood test that detects elevated levels of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland.
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) – A physical examination to check for abnormalities in the prostate.
MRI and Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy – Advanced imaging techniques that help confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
Risk Factors: Who is at Risk?
According to Dr. Narain, several factors contribute to the likelihood of developing prostate cancer:
Age – Men over 50 are at a higher risk.
Family History – Those with close relatives diagnosed with prostate cancer are more susceptible.
Genetic Mutations – BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations increase the risk.
Diet & Lifestyle – High-fat diets, obesity, and smoking contribute to the development of cancer.
Treatment Approaches: Personalized and Advanced Solutions
Dr. Narain emphasizes the need for a personalized approach to treatment based on the cancer stage, patient health, and genetic factors. Some of the modern treatment strategies include:
Active Surveillance & Watchful Waiting – For slow-growing tumors, regular monitoring without immediate treatment is an option.
Surgery (Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy) – Minimally invasive robotic techniques provide better precision, reduced complications, and quicker recovery.
Radiation Therapy – External beam radiation or brachytherapy (internal radiation) is used to target cancer cells.
Hormonal Therapy – Medications that lower testosterone levels, slowing cancer growth.
Chemotherapy & Immunotherapy – Used for advanced or aggressive prostate cancer cases.
The Future of Prostate Cancer Treatment
Dr. Narain highlights the growing role of robotic surgery and precision medicine in prostate cancer management. The integration of AI, genetic profiling, and immunotherapy is paving the way for more targeted and effective treatments.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a serious yet manageable disease when detected early and treated effectively. Dr. Tushar Aditya Narain’s article in India Today serves as an eye-opener, urging men to prioritize screening, healthy lifestyles, and seeking expert medical care. With advancements in robotic surgery and personalized treatment approaches, the future of prostate cancer management is more promising than ever.
For those seeking expert guidance, Dr. Narain and his team at Max Healthcare, New Delhi, continue to offer cutting-edge treatments, ensuring better outcomes for prostate cancer patients in India and beyond.