What is prostate cancer and why are its cases increasing worldwide

Nepal Health News – According to a recent report by The Lancet, a prestigious medical journal based in London, the number of prostate cancer cases worldwide is expected to double in the coming years. The report notes that in 2020, there were 1.4 million new cases of prostate cancer globally, and this number is projected to reach 2.9 million by 2040.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in 112 countries, and in 2020 alone, it caused the death of 375,000 men. By 2040, the number of deaths is expected to rise by 85%.

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is a disease related to the male reproductive system. The prostate gland is located just below the bladder and tends to enlarge with age. Abnormal growth in the prostate can eventually develop into cancer. However, not all prostate issues are cancerous.

Doctors say this cancer usually progresses slowly and may not show symptoms initially. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Frequent urination

• Difficulty holding urine

• Pain or blood during urination

• Frequent urination at night

Why are prostate cancer cases increasing?

According to The Lancet report and various experts, the main reasons for the rising number of prostate cancer cases include:

• Aging population: As life expectancy increases, age-related cancers like prostate cancer are also on the rise.

• Lifestyle factors: In Western countries, the prevalence of fast food, alcohol, smoking, and sedentary lifestyles has increased cancer risk.

• Late detection: In low-income countries, lack of screening programs often results in late-stage diagnosis, increasing the mortality rate.

• Genetic factors: If a family member has had prostate cancer, the risk is higher for other male members in the family.

What is the situation in India and Nepal?

In India, prostate cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancer cases. Each year, approximately 33,000 to 42,000 new cases are reported. In urban areas, prostate cancer cases have increased by 75–85% over the last 25 years.

Experts believe the actual number is higher since many cases go unreported. Additionally, routine screening is not common in India or Nepal, leading to delayed diagnosis.

What are the prevention and treatment options?

• PSA Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen): This blood test helps assess the condition of the prostate gland. If the results are abnormal, further tests like MRI or biopsy are conducted.

• Treatment options include surgery, robotic surgery, and hormone therapy. When detected early, the success rate of treatment is very high.

According to Dr. S.V.S. Dev, “Prostate cancer is a slow-growing cancer, so early treatment can increase life expectancy by 10–15 years.”

Doctors recommend that men start getting a PSA test every two years after the age of 45—especially if there is a family history of cancer.