Prostate cancer awareness remains alarmingly low among men aged 45 and above in India, according to a recent survey. Nearly 60 percent of men in this age group do not know whether they have ever undergone prostate cancer screening. Additionally, 84 percent either have not been tested, are uncertain about their screening status, or believe testing is unnecessary.
Awareness Levels and Risk Factors
The survey, conducted by Heal Foundation among 1,036 men across Delhi-NCR, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Maharashtra, highlights significant gaps in knowledge about prostate cancer risks, screening, and treatment. Approximately 69 percent of respondents could not identify even one risk factor for prostate cancer.
Only 13.2 percent were aware that having a family history increases the risk of developing the disease. Furthermore, about 75 percent of men believed that monitoring should only begin after 50 years of age. Dr. Devvrat Arya, Vice Chairman of the Medical Oncology Department at Max Healthcare, noted these statistics point to a general lack of basic information among men about prostate cancer.
Screening and Communication Barriers
While nearly two-thirds of surveyed men reported undergoing routine annual health checkups, 60.8 percent were unaware of their prostate cancer screening status. Only about one in six men admitted to ever having a prostate screening test. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, crucial for detecting prostate cancer, was known by just 31 percent of men, and a mere 14 percent had actively requested the test from their doctors.
The survey also revealed reluctance among men to discuss prostate cancer with healthcare providers. Around 60 percent felt uncomfortable talking about screening or treatment with doctors. In contrast, only 18 percent proactively initiated conversations on the topic. Dr. Nitesh Rohatgi, Principal Director of Medical Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, said older men often dismiss symptoms as normal signs of aging, causing delays in diagnosis.
Testing for prostate cancer is not a one-size-fits-all approach; screening recommendations vary based on age, family medical history, and other risk factors. Experts stress the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider to determine the need for PSA testing, as elevated PSA levels do not always indicate cancer.
These findings underscore the urgent need to improve education and communication about prostate cancer, especially for men over 45. Increased awareness can lead to earlier detection, improving treatment outcomes. The survey’s results have sparked calls within the medical community to promote regular screening discussions and better information dissemination.
With prostate cancer being one of the leading causes of cancer-related death among men, experts urge men to take a proactive role in their health. Open dialogue with physicians and timely screening can play a vital role in combating this silent threat.
As awareness grows, it is hoped that more men will recognize the importance of early detection and seek appropriate care, ultimately reducing morbidity and mortality associated with prostate cancer in India.
