Prostate cancer remains an important health concern for men, yet a lack of awareness about its risk factors, symptoms and screening options may prevent many from taking timely action. In India, a recent survey has highlighted a worrying gap in knowledge, with many men aged 45 and above unsure whether they have ever been screened for the disease.

According to the survey, nearly six out of ten men in this age group did not know their prostate cancer screening status. Furthermore, 84% of men who had not undergone testing either lacked awareness of their screening status or believed that screening was unnecessary.

The survey, conducted by the Heal Foundation among 1,036 men across Delhi-NCR, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Maharashtra, highlights the importance of improving public awareness and encouraging informed conversations about men's health.

Most Men Are Unaware of Prostate Cancer Risk Factors

The survey revealed that approximately 69% of respondents could not identify even one risk factor for prostate cancer. Only 13.2% knew that having a family history of the disease could increase their risk.

Another concerning finding was that around 75% of respondents believed prostate monitoring should begin only after the age of 50.

Medical experts emphasise that awareness should begin before symptoms appear. Age is an important risk factor, and men with a close relative who has had prostate cancer may need to discuss their risk with a doctor earlier.

According to Dr. Devvrat Arya, Vice Chairman of Medical Oncology at Max Healthcare, the findings reflect significant gaps in men's understanding of prostate cancer. Men aged 45 and above can discuss their individual risk factors and the potential benefits of screening with a healthcare professional.

PSA Test: A Screening Option Many Men Don't Know About

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a blood test that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. It can help identify men who may need further evaluation for prostate cancer.

Despite its potential role in screening, awareness of the test remains limited. According to the survey, only 31% of respondents had heard of the PSA test, while just 14% had asked their doctor about it.

Interestingly, nearly two-thirds of the men surveyed reported undergoing routine health check-ups every year. This suggests that attending regular medical appointments does not necessarily mean that prostate cancer risk has been discussed or assessed.

However, a raised PSA level does not automatically mean that a person has cancer. Conditions such as an enlarged prostate or inflammation can also increase PSA levels. Doctors may recommend additional tests depending on the individual's medical history and results.

Why Are Men Hesitant to Discuss Prostate Health?

Social stigma, embarrassment and misconceptions about ageing can prevent men from seeking medical advice about prostate-related concerns.

The survey found that nearly 60% of respondents felt uncomfortable discussing prostate cancer screening or treatment with their doctor. Only 18% said they were willing to initiate such a conversation themselves.

Dr. Nitesh Rohatgi, Principal Director of Medical Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, has highlighted how some older men dismiss possible symptoms as a normal consequence of ageing.

This can be problematic because changes in urinary habits or other persistent symptoms may require medical evaluation. Although such symptoms are often caused by non-cancerous conditions, ignoring them without assessment can delay the identification of a serious illness.

Symptoms Men Should Not Ignore

Prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Difficulty starting or maintaining urination.

• A weak or interrupted urine stream.

• Frequent urination, particularly at night.

• Blood in the urine or semen.

• Persistent pain in the back, hips or pelvis, particularly in advanced disease.

These symptoms do not necessarily indicate prostate cancer. An enlarged prostate and other medical conditions can cause similar problems. Nevertheless, persistent or unusual symptoms should be discussed with a doctor.

Inability to pass urine suddenly requires urgent medical attention.

When Should Men Consider Prostate Cancer Screening?

There is no single screening age or testing schedule that is appropriate for every man. Decisions about PSA testing should take into account age, family history, overall health, individual risk factors and personal preferences.

Men with a close family history of prostate cancer, particularly when relatives were diagnosed at a younger age, should discuss their risk with a healthcare professional.

Screening decisions also involve weighing potential benefits against possible disadvantages. PSA testing can sometimes identify cancers that might never cause serious illness, potentially leading to unnecessary investigations or treatment. An abnormal result therefore requires appropriate clinical interpretation.

A doctor may recommend repeating the PSA test or conducting further investigations, such as imaging or a biopsy, depending on the circumstances.

The Way Forward: Awareness and Early Medical Advice

The survey highlights the need to make conversations about prostate health more common and accessible. Public awareness campaigns, regular consultations and better understanding of screening options could help men make informed decisions about their health.

Men should not wait for symptoms to become severe before discussing their concerns with a doctor. Equally, they should not assume that everyone needs the same test at the same age.

The key message is simple: understanding your risk, recognising persistent symptoms and discussing appropriate screening with a qualified healthcare professional can help you make better-informed decisions about prostate health.

Breaking the silence around prostate cancer is an important step towards improving awareness, reducing hesitation and encouraging timely medical care.