Leading urologists and uro-oncologists at an international conference held by the Urological Society of India stressed the need for prostate cancer awareness and early detection in India.
Gyvi Gaurav, Uro-Oncologist at Precision Urology Hospital, Lucknow, highlighted the increasing prevalence of prostate cancer in India, with rates of 8–10 per 1 lakh in Asia. Although commonly associated with men aged 60 and above, cases in individuals as young as 50 are rising, Dr Gaurav said at USICON 2025. N. Ragavan, Senior Urologist and Uro-Oncologist from Chennai, noted that the rise in reported cases is largely due to improved awareness and early diagnosis rather than an actual increase in incidence. Early detection enables treatment at curable stages, contributing to a growing population of cancer survivors. While government campaigns for breast and cervical cancer have been impactful, prostate cancer lacks similar prioritisation due to its relatively lower incidence in India, he said.
Dr. Ragavan, speaking to The Hindu at the sidelines of USICON 2025, said India’s pharmaceutical industry excels in producing affordable generic drugs but lags in innovation. Companies often focus on replicating existing medications rather than investing in R&D for novel treatments. He emphasised the need for public-private partnerships to drive innovation, improve treatment options, and enhance the industry’s economic impact. While AI is improving diagnostic accuracy through advanced imaging analysis and digital pathology, with potential applications in personalised therapy and focal interventions, ethical oversight is crucial to ensure AI supports rather than replaces healthcare professionals, he said.
Advances in prostate cancer treatment now allow for targeted therapies instead of complete prostate removal. However, success rates remain limited without early diagnosis. Regular PSA testing for men over 50 and awareness campaigns were strongly advocated. Dr. Ragavan also suggested making cancer a notifiable disease to improve data collection and policy planning.
Lt Capt. Aditya Pradhan from BLK Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi, and Rajendra Shimpi from the Asian Institute of Men’s Health & Urology Clinic, Pune, further reinforced the importance of increased awareness in tackling prostate cancer.
Published – January 12, 2025 01:01 am IST