Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men worldwide — yet it is also one of the most treatable when caught early. The challenge is that in its early stages, prostate cancer often causes no symptoms at all. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may have progressed further.
This is why awareness of the warning signs — and regular screening for men over 50 — can make a life-saving difference.
At Capital Super Speciality Hospital, Yamunanagar, our oncology and urology teams work together to detect, diagnose, and treat prostate cancer with precision and compassion. Here is what every man (and every family) should know.
What Is the Prostate Gland?
The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland in the male reproductive system. It sits just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra — the tube that carries urine out of the body. Its primary role is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm.
Because of its location, when the prostate becomes enlarged or develops a tumour, it can directly affect urination and sexual function.
Who Is at Risk?
While prostate cancer can affect any man, certain factors increase the risk:
- Age: Risk rises sharply after age 50; most cases are diagnosed in men over 65
- Family history: Having a father or brother with prostate cancer doubles your risk
- Diet: High-fat diets and low consumption of fruits and vegetables may increase risk
- Obesity: Linked to more aggressive forms of prostate cancer
- Ethnicity: Prostate cancer is more common and more aggressive in some populations
Common Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Many men with early prostate cancer have no symptoms. However, as the cancer grows — especially if it presses on the urethra or spreads beyond the prostate — the following signs may appear:
1. Frequent Urination, Especially at Night
Needing to urinate more often than usual, particularly waking up multiple times at night (nocturia), is one of the earliest and most common signs.
2. Weak or Interrupted Urine Flow
A noticeably weaker urine stream, difficulty starting urination, or a stream that starts and stops repeatedly can indicate prostate enlargement or a tumour pressing on the urethra.
3. Difficulty Emptying the Bladder
A persistent feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied even after urinating is a warning sign that should not be ignored.
4. Blood in Urine (Haematuria)
The presence of blood in the urine — even in small amounts — should always be investigated by a doctor immediately.
5. Blood in Semen
Blood in the semen (haematospermia) can be alarming and is a symptom that warrants urgent evaluation for prostate conditions, including cancer.
6. Pain or Burning During Urination
A burning sensation or pain while urinating, though often associated with infection, can also be a sign of prostate cancer, especially when accompanied by other symptoms.
7. Erectile Dysfunction
Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection can be linked to prostate cancer, particularly in later stages when the tumour affects surrounding nerves or blood vessels.
8. Pain in the Lower Back, Hips, or Pelvis
Persistent, unexplained pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvic area may indicate that cancer has spread to the bones — a more advanced stage requiring urgent attention.
9. Unexplained Weight Loss and Fatigue
Significant unintentional weight loss, persistent tiredness, or loss of appetite in combination with urinary symptoms should prompt immediate medical consultation.
Important: Many of these symptoms can also be caused by a non-cancerous condition called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) — an enlarged prostate. Only a doctor can determine the cause. Do not self-diagnose. Please consult a specialist.
How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?
Early detection dramatically improves outcomes. At Capital Super Speciality Hospital, our specialists use a combination of the following tools:
PSA Blood Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen)
A simple blood test that measures the level of PSA — a protein produced by the prostate. Elevated PSA levels may indicate cancer, inflammation, or BPH. It is the primary screening test recommended for men over 50 (or 40 for high-risk individuals).
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
A physical examination where the doctor gently feels the prostate through the rectal wall to check for lumps, hardness, or irregular shape.
MRI of the Prostate
A detailed imaging scan that helps identify suspicious areas within the prostate and guides further investigation.
Prostate Biopsy
If PSA or imaging results are concerning, a small tissue sample is taken from the prostate and examined under a microscope. This is the only definitive way to confirm prostate cancer.
Bone Scan and CT Scan
Used to check whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, including bones and lymph nodes.
Stages of Prostate Cancer
Understanding the stage of cancer helps determine the right treatment:
| Stage | Description |
| Stage I |
Cancer is small, confined to the prostate, and growing slowly
|
| Stage II |
Cancer is still confined to the prostate but may be larger or faster-growing
|
| Stage III |
Cancer has spread beyond the prostate to nearby tissues
|
| Stage IV |
Cancer has spread to lymph nodes, bones, or other organs
|
Stages I and II have the highest cure rates with appropriate treatment.
Effective Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer
The treatment recommended depends on the stage of cancer, the patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences. Our oncology team at Capital Super Speciality Hospital offers a full range of modern treatment options:
1. Active Surveillance (Watchful Waiting)
For very slow-growing, low-risk cancers — especially in older men — doctors may recommend regular monitoring with PSA tests, biopsies, and imaging rather than immediate treatment. This avoids unnecessary side effects while keeping a close watch on the cancer.
2. Surgery — Radical Prostatectomy
The surgical removal of the entire prostate gland. This is a common treatment for cancer confined to the prostate in younger, healthy men. It offers an excellent chance of cure for early-stage disease.
3. Radiation Therapy
High-energy rays are used to destroy cancer cells. There are two main types:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Targeted radiation delivered from outside the body over several weeks
- Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation): Radioactive seeds are implanted directly into the prostate
Capital Super Speciality Hospital is equipped with Radiation Therapy facilities to deliver this treatment effectively.
4. Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy — ADT)
Prostate cancer cells need the male hormone testosterone to grow. Hormone therapy works by reducing testosterone levels or blocking its effect on cancer cells. It is often used alongside radiation or for advanced cancer.
5. Chemotherapy
Used primarily for advanced prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate and is no longer responding to hormone therapy. Chemotherapy drugs help slow the growth of cancer cells.
6. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
Newer treatment approaches that target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells or stimulate the immune system to fight cancer. These are increasingly available for advanced or recurrent prostate cancer.
7. Palliative Care
For patients with advanced disease, palliative care focuses on relieving pain and improving quality of life rather than curing the cancer. This includes pain management, bone-strengthening medications, and emotional support.
Life After Prostate Cancer Treatment
Recovery and life after treatment vary depending on the type of treatment received. Common side effects — such as urinary changes or sexual dysfunction — may be temporary or long-term. Our team provides:
- Physiotherapy for post-surgical recovery
- Dietary counselling to support healing and reduce recurrence risk
- Psychological support for patients and families
- Regular follow-up care with PSA monitoring to detect any recurrence early
Most men treated for early-stage prostate cancer go on to live full, active, and healthy lives.
When Should You Get Screened?
| Age Group | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 40–49 | Discuss screening with your doctor if you have a family history or other risk factors |
| 50+ | Annual PSA test and DRE recommended for all men |
| 65+ | Continue screening based on health status and life expectancy |
Do not wait for symptoms to appear. By the time symptoms develop, the cancer may already be in an advanced stage.
Why Choose Capital Super Speciality Hospital for Cancer Care?
Our NABH-accredited hospital in Yamunanagar brings together experienced oncology surgeons, radiation specialists, and a dedicated support team to provide:
- Advanced cancer diagnosis and staging
- Expert Oncology Surgery by Dr. Kuljinder Singh Sodhi
- Radiation Therapy facilities on-site
- Multidisciplinary cancer care team
- Cashless treatment across leading insurers
- Compassionate, patient-first care at every step
We were honoured with the Achievers Award for Excellence in Oncology in Haryana (2025) — a testament to our commitment to cancer care.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you have noticed any of the symptoms described above — or if you are a man over 50 who has not had a prostate cancer screening — please do not delay.
Call us: +91 8199008804 / 8199008805 📍 Visit us: Capital Super Speciality Hospital, Yamunanagar, Haryana 🕐 OPD Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM – 2 PM & 5 PM – 8 PM 🚨 Emergency: 24/7 | Dial 108 🌐 Website: www.capitalsuperspecialityhospital.com
Early detection saves lives. One test today could change everything tomorrow.