Prostate Cancer

Cancer begins when cells within the body experience uncontrolled growth. Cells can undergo such transformation in any body part, potentially spreading to other regions. Prostate Cancer originates within the Prostate Gland, a male organ, when cells within the gland start proliferating without restraint. This gland produces a particular fluid that is part of semen.

Prostate Gland is positioned beneath the urinary bladder and in front of the rectum. Adjacent to the prostate lie seminal vesicles, responsible for producing the majority of semen fluid. The Urethra, a tube responsible for expelling urine and semen through the penis, passes through the centre of the prostate.
 

The majority of Prostate Cancers are initially detected through screening methods that are mentioned below:

• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test
• Digital rectal exam (DRE)

In the early stages, Prostate Cancers typically do not manifest symptoms, whereas symptoms may arise when the Cancer advances. When there is suspicion of Prostate Cancer due to screening outcomes or symptoms, additional tests are necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Initial assessment for this Cancer treatment typically involves a series of steps to gather essential information about the cancer's extent, characteristics, and the overall health of the patient. Here's a general outline of the pre-evaluation process for Prostate Cancer treatment:

• Medical History Review: The patient's medical history is reviewed to understand their overall health, any past medical conditions, medications, and family history of cancer.
• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination, including a digital rectal exam (DRE), is conducted to assess the size, shape, and texture of the prostate gland.
• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Test: A blood test measures PSA levels. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate issues, including cancer. However, a high PSA level does not necessarily mean cancer is present.
• Biopsy: If there are indications of potential cancer, a biopsy may be performed. Small tissue samples are collected from the prostate gland using a needle. Pathologists examine these samples to determine the presence of cancer cells and their aggressiveness (Gleason score).
• Genetic Testing: Some doctors advise considering genetic testing for specific hereditary gene alterations in select individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer. This applies to men who are suspected of having a familial cancer syndrome (such as mutations in the BRCA gene or Lynch syndrome), as well as men with prostate cancer exhibiting certain high-risk characteristics or having metastasized to other regions of the body.
• Imaging Tests: Diagnostic imaging procedures employ various techniques such as X-Rays, magnetic fields, sound waves, or radioactive elements to generate visual representations of the internal structures within your body. A combination of one or multiple imaging examinations could be employed including:

1. Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)
2. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
3. Bone scan
4. Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
5. Computed tomography (CT) scan

• Lymph Node Biopsy: During a lymph node biopsy, referred to as lymph node dissection or lymphadenectomy, the objective is to extract one or more lymph nodes to determine the presence of cancer cells.
• Staging: The extent of Cancer is determined through staging. Staging helps in deciding the appropriate treatment approach. The commonly used staging system is the TNM system, which considers tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and metastasis (M).

Symptoms:

The majority of prostate cancers are detected in their early stages through screening. Typically, early-stage prostate cancer doesn't exhibit any symptoms. In cases of more advanced prostate cancers, symptoms may manifest, including:

• Urinary issues, like a slow or feeble urinary stream, increased frequency of urination (particularly at night)
• Presence of blood in urine or semen
• Difficulty achieving an erection (erectile dysfunction or ED)
• Pain in the hips, back (spine), chest (ribs), or other regions due to cancer spreading to the bones
• Weakness, numbness in the legs or feet, or even loss of control over bladder or bowel functions due to cancer exerting pressure on the spinal cord

Causes:

Inherited Genes: The precise origins of Prostate Cancer remain unclear to researchers. DNA mutations can trigger cancer by either keeping oncogenes (genes responsible for cell growth, division, and survival) in a perpetually active state or by deactivating tumor suppressor genes. Such alterations in gene function can result in unregulated cell growth. Certain gene mutations are capable of being transmitted from one generation to another (inherited) and are present in all bodily cells. It is estimated that inherited gene mutations contribute to approximately 10% of prostate cancers. Cancers stemming from inherited genes are termed as hereditary cancer.

Acquired Genes: Certain genes undergo mutations within an individual's lifespan, and these mutations are not transferred to offspring. Such alterations are present exclusively in cells stemming from the previously mutated cell. These mutations are referred to as acquired mutations. The majority of gene mutations linked to prostate cancer appear to emerge over the course of a man's life, as opposed to being inherited. The risk factors behind acquired gene mutation are: 

• Androgens: Elevated androgen (male hormones like testosterone) levels may increase the susceptibility to prostate cancer in certain men.
• Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1): As per research, there is a potential correlation between heightened levels of a different hormone such as IGF-1 and an increased risk of prostate cancer in men.
• Inflammation: Certain studies suggest that the inflammation within the prostate might have a connection to prostate cancer. As it can lead to damage in cell DNA, potentially facilitating the transformation of a normal cell into a cancerous one. 
• Radiation or Cancer-causing Substances: Exposure to radiation or other cancer-causing substances can induce DNA mutations in various organs.

Possible complications associated with the treatment encompass:

• Urinary Incontinence: You might experience urine leakage when you cough or laugh, or feel a compelling urge to urinate even when your bladder isn't full. Typically, this issue improves over the initial six to twelve months without requiring intervention.
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Surgery, radiation, and other treatments can harm the nerves responsible for erectile function in your penis, potentially impacting your ability to achieve or sustain an erection. It is common to witness a return of erectile function within a year or two (sometimes sooner). In the interim, medications like sildenafil or tadalafil can assist by enhancing blood flow to the penis.
• Impaired Fertility: Treatments can influence your capacity to produce or release sperm, leading to infertility. 
   

Continued attention for individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer doesn't conclude once active treatment is completed. Your medical team will persist in ensuring that the cancer doesn't resurface, addressing any side effects, and overseeing your overall well-being. This continuum of care is known as follow-up care. Your follow-up regimen may involve regular physical check-ups, medical assessments, or a combination of both. Medical professionals aim to monitor your progress in the months and years following treatment.

Given that risks differ from person to person, discussing your risk profile with your doctor is crucial to establish an appropriate schedule for follow-up care. Cancer rehabilitation might be recommended, encompassing a broad spectrum of services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, vocational guidance, pain management, nutritional planning, and emotional counseling. The objective of rehabilitation is to empower individuals to regain control over various aspects of their lives and sustain a degree of independence.

Regardless of the specific cancer type, treatments frequently lead to side effects that influence the well-being of patients for lifetime. In the context of prostate cancer, potential side effects can be especially worrisome for men in making treatment decisions.

Prostate Cancer treatments frequently influence a patient's sexual life. Surgical procedures, radiation therapy, and other treatments can result in side effects such as decreased sexual desire, reduction in penis size, dry orgasm, decreased sperm count, and/or erectile dysfunction. However, professionals affirm that the majority of these side effects are controllable, and many men have a favorable chance of restoring a healthy sexual life following prostate cancer treatment.

Apart from medications, pellets, injections, pumps, and implants, there are additional strategies available to counteract side effects following Prostate Cancer treatment. Some of these methods are outlined below.

• Adopting Lifestyle Changes: Factors like obesity, lack of physical activity, and tobacco use have been linked to erectile dysfunction. Making lifestyle adjustments can address these contributing factors in men who have undergone Prostate Cancer treatment.
• Engaging in Psychosexual Counseling: Research indicates that therapy can enhance the quality of life for both men and their partners following cancer treatment.
• Practicing Pelvic Floor Exercises: Exercising the superficial muscles of the pelvic floor can improve erections in men who have received prostate cancer treatment. 

If Prostate Cancer is identified in its early stages, the prognosis is highly favorable. Nearly all individuals, around 99%, who are diagnosed with localized cancer that hasn't extended beyond the prostate, survive for at least five years post-diagnosis. In cases where Prostate Cancer has metastasized, or spread beyond the prostate, the survival rates are not as promising. About 32% of individuals with metastatic Prostate Cancer remain alive five years after diagnosis.

Keep in mind that medical information and cost of prostate cancer treatment can vary over time and by location, so it's important to consult with medical professionals and financial advisors for the most up-to-date and accurate information. The lowest cost for treating Prostate Cancer in India begins approximately at $1130. On average, the expense for this treatment in India is around  $4951.

The highest expenses can go up to $ 13,224. After accounting for the aforementioned elements, the expense associated with treating prostate cancer in India can range from approximately $ 1130 to $ 13,224. In contrast, undergoing equivalent treatment in the United States is priced at approximately $250,000.

Cost Analysis and comparison based on the location of a the Cancer Care facility:

Cost Analysis and comparison based on an approximate cost split:

Nonetheless, the cost of Prostate Cancer treatment in India might fluctuate contingent on the subsequent key aspects:

• Health insurance coverage
• Out of pocket expense
• Admission charges
• Oncologist remuneration
• Patient's age
• Extent of tumour severity or metastasis
• Patient's medical state
• Nature of intended prostate cancer treatment
• Complications encountered post-procedure
• Hospital category
• Chosen room category for admission
• Additional laboratory or diagnostic assessments like X-rays, ECGs, and others

The expenses associated with diagnosing prostate cancer might encompass several preliminary assessments and examinations performed prior to the primary treatment. These supplementary costs cover diagnostic procedures like X-rays, CT (computed tomography) scans, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans, PET (positron emission tomography) scan, biopsies, and other diagnostic evaluations. The overall costs for these tests can range from INR 40,000 to INR 50,000.

MedFlick, your trusted healthcare companion, is dedicated to ensuring that your medical journey goes as smoothly and successfully as possible.

• Individualized Guidance: Personalized guidance throughout your medical journey.
• Access to a broad network of prominent hospitals, top doctors, and skilled surgeons.
• Transparent and Competitive Pricing: A full breakdown of treatment costs that eliminates surprises and offers you cost-effective solutions.
• MedFlick provides everything from travel arrangements to hotel and visa help to lodging.
• Multilingual Support: Breaking down language barriers to allow patients and medical professionals to communicate more effectively.
• The road to a successful Prostate Cancer treatment is long and winding, full of hope, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future. With MedFlick as your guide, navigating this life changing adventure becomes simple and liberating.