One of the most common malignancies among men globally, including in India, is prostate cancer. Prostate cancer treatment choices have widened with advances in medical science and technology, providing patients with customized options to meet their individual needs. Prostate cancer patients in India receive all-inclusive care from reputable hospitals and skilled medical personnel, including a range of treatment options from radiation therapy to surgery.

What is Prostate? 

The prostate is a small organ that resembles a walnut. It is below your bladder and in front of your rectum. Its main jobs during ejaculation are to produce fluids in your semen and push it through your urethra. It's typical for your prostate to enlarge as you get older.

Prostate Cancer Treatment costs in India 

Treatment for prostate cancer is conditional upon several aspects, including the cancer's stage and grade, the patient's basic health and preferences, and the general availability and affordability of treatment options.

One of the most popular and successful forms of treatment for prostate cancer is surgery. Radical prostatectomy is the removal of the prostate gland along with certain surrounding tissues and lymph nodes. Various procedures, such as open, laparoscopic, or robotic surgery, can be used to perform surgery. The patient's preferences, the size and location of the cancer, and the surgeon's training and expertise all influence the type of surgery that is performed. Treatment for prostate cancer is conditional upon several aspects, including the cancer's stage and grade, the patient's basic health and preferences. A Prostate cancer surgery in India might cost anywhere between Rs 95,000 and Rs 9,35,000, subject to the hospital and procedure selected.

Types of Treatments available in India 

Tests for Diagnosis

There are several diagnosis methods for prostate treatment, which indeed help to determine the stages of the cancer and to urge to the best treatments available.

1. The Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) is a straightforward physical examination in which the physician feels the prostate gland for any anomalies by putting a gloved finger into the rectum. Although this test is not highly accurate and cannot confirm the diagnosis, it can detect some cases of prostate cancer. It is free of cost in most hospitals or nominal charges may apply.

2. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: This is a blood test used to measure the amount of the prostate gland's protein, PSA. Infection, inflammation, benign prostate enlargement, and prostate cancer are among the disorders that can be indicated by a high PSA result. Age and other variables affect the normal range of PSA, but in general, a result greater than 4 ng/mL (Nano grams (ng) per milliliter) is regarded as abnormal and may call for additional testing. Normal PSA test cost around rs.500 to rs.1500.

3. Trans Rectal Ultrasonography (TRUS): This imaging procedure creates an image of the prostate gland and nearby tissues by using sound waves. A tiny probe is introduced into the rectum, and it sends out sound waves that are picked up by a computer after they reflect off the prostate. This test can assist in determining the prostate's dimensions and form as well as identify any worrisome regions that would require a biopsy. The average cost for TRUS is in between rs.1500 to rs.5000

Best treatments for Prostate Cancer 

Radiation therapy: It stops the growth of cancer cells or kills them with high-energy beams. It can be administered internally (brachytherapy) or externally (external beam radiation therapy). Radiation therapy with external beam technology entails irradiating the prostate and surrounding tissues with radiation from an external equipment. Inserting radioactive wires or seeds inside or close to the prostate is known as brachytherapy. In order to reduce the chance of recurrence following surgery or as an adjuvant treatment in cases of early-stage prostate cancer, radiation therapy may be utilized as the primary course of treatment. Additionally, it can lessen discomfort or other signs of advanced prostate cancer. Radiation therapy side effects include weariness, gastrointestinal, urinary, and sexual dysfunction issues, as well as skin irritation. Radiation therapy for prostate cancer can cost anywhere between Rs 1,50,000 and Rs 4,00,000 in India, depending on the hospital used, the type of treatment, and its length.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy employs medications to either kill or halt the growth of cancer cells. It can be administered intravenously (by a vein) or orally (by mouth). When hormone therapy is ineffective or advanced-stage prostate cancer spreads to other body areas, chemotherapy is typically employed. To increase the efficacy of other therapies, it can also be taken either before or after them. Chemotherapy can reduce the size of tumors, stop their growth, and treat pain and other side effects. Chemotherapy side effects, however, can also include vomiting, nausea, mouth sores, hair loss, low blood cell counts, infection, and nerve damage. Depending on the medications used and the hospital used, the cost of chemotherapy for prostate cancer in India might vary from Rs 25,000 to Rs 2,00,000 every cycle.

Hormone therapy involves the use of medications to reduce the levels of androgens, or male hormones, such as testosterone, which are known to promote the growth of prostate cancer cells. It can be administered via injection (agonists or antagonists of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone), tablet (anti-androgens), or surgical procedure (orchiectomy). In order to lower the chance of a recurrence, hormone therapy can be used as the main treatment for early-stage prostate cancer or as an additional treatment following radiation therapy or surgery. In addition, it can be applied to metastatic prostate cancer that has metastasized to other bodily regions or is resistant to conventional forms of therapy.

Hormone therapy can reduce pain and other symptoms as well as limit or stop tumor growth. In addition, hot flashes, weight gain, muscle loss, osteoporosis, erectile dysfunction, and mood swings are among the negative effects of hormone therapy. Depending on the medications used and the institution selected, the cost of hormone therapy for prostate cancer in India might vary from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000 per month.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is the use of medications to strengthen the body's defenses against cancerous cells. It can be administered intravenously (monoclonal antibodies) or by injection (vaccines). Prostate cancer immunotherapy is an emerging and novel therapy that is only offered in certain clinical trials and facilities.

When other therapies are ineffective or the prostate cancer has progressed to other body areas, it might be used to treat advanced stage prostate cancer. Immunotherapy can boost the body's defense mechanisms to combat and eradicate cancerous cells. Immunotherapy's adverse effects, however, might also include rash, irritation, fever, chills, exhaustion, and allergic responses. Although the precise cost of immunotherapy for prostate cancer in India isn’t established, it is thought to be quite costly, ranging from Rs 2,00,000 to Rs 10,00,000, depending on the medications chosen and the hospital.

These are a few prostate cancer treatment options in India, along with associated costs. The stage and grade of the cancer, the kind and quantity of treatments needed, the cost of hospital and physician visits, the insurance coverage, and the patient's general health may all have an impact on the real cost of therapy. Thus, in order to receive a customized treatment plan and estimate for your particular condition, it is recommended that you speak with a licensed and competent urologist or oncologist.

Leading nations in Prostate Cancer Treatment

Prostate cancer therapy differs from country to country, with some known for having highly developed and effective medical systems. With its state-of-the-art technologies, wealth of highly skilled medical personnel, and large prostate cancer research facilities, the United States is in the vanguard. Germany is well known for having a strong healthcare system and cutting-edge medical facilities that give patients access to cutting-edge therapies and individualized care. Leading the way in medical research and development, South Korea provides cutting-edge treatments with a focus on early detection. India's rapidly expanding healthcare industry draws medical tourists looking for top-notch care since it offers affordable prostate cancer treatments without sacrificing quality. Thailand, a country well-known for its medical tourism sector, provides top-notch prostate cancer care in facilities with international accreditation and highly qualified medical staff. Together, these countries set the bar for effective and thorough prostate cancer care worldwide and have made substantial contributions to the development of new techniques for both diagnosis and therapy.

Best hospitals for prostate cancer treatment in India 

– Apollo Hospital

– Fortis Hospital

– Manipal Hospital

– NU Hospital

– P.D.Hinduja Hospital

Specialized surgeons for Prostate Cancer in India 

- Dr. Raj Nagarkar - Clinical oncologist, 28 years of experience.

- Dr. Laxman Bellamkonda

- Dr. Madhav Sanzgiri

- Dr. Vidhiraja B.M

- Dr. Shaunak Valame - Clinical oncologist, 8 years of experience

- Dr. Sridhar P S - Radiation oncologist

- Dr. Chaitainya Borde

- Dr. Ravindra Tandale

- Dr. Shruti Kate

FAQ

1. How can I schedule an appointment for prostate cancer treatment in India?

   - To schedule an appointment for prostate cancer treatment in India, contact the hospital or healthcare facility directly. Many hospitals offer online appointment booking services for added convenience.

2. How long does prostate cancer surgery typically take?

   - The duration of prostate cancer surgery can vary depending on factors such as the type of surgery performed and the patient's individual circumstances. Basically it will take about 2 to 4 hours.

3. What are the potential after-effects of prostate cancer surgery?

   - Common after-effects of prostate cancer surgery may include urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and changes in bowel habits. Discussing potential side effects with your healthcare provider before surgery can help you prepare and manage expectations.

4. Are there supplements that can help reduce prostate size?

   - Some supplements, such as saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, and pygeum, have been studied for their potential to reduce prostate size and alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

5. What are natural ways to reduce prostate growth?

   - Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, regular exercise, and stress management techniques, may help support prostate health and reduce prostate growth.

6. What is BPH, and how is it related to prostate cancer?

   - BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and difficulty starting or stopping urination. While BPH is not directly related to prostate cancer, the two conditions may share similar symptoms and risk factors.

7. Is hydrogen peroxide prostate treatment effective?

   - Hydrogen peroxide prostate treatment is a controversial alternative therapy that involves injecting hydrogen peroxide into the prostate gland to purportedly shrink it. However, the safety and efficacy of this treatment are not well-established, and it's not widely recommended by healthcare professionals.

8. What is laser prostate treatment, and how does it work?

   - Laser prostate treatment, also known as laser therapy or laser ablation, uses laser energy to target and remove excess prostate tissue, reducing urinary symptoms associated with BPH. This minimally invasive procedure can offer relief for men with enlarged prostates.

9. Is steam treatment for enlarged prostate available on the NHS?

   - Steam treatment for enlarged prostate, also known as Rezum therapy, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses steam to shrink excess prostate tissue and alleviate urinary symptoms. While it may be available through private healthcare providers, its availability on the NHS may vary depending on local guidelines and funding.

10. How can I reduce prostate enlargement without surgery?

    - Non-surgical approaches to reducing prostate enlargement include lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, medications to manage symptoms, and minimally invasive procedures like laser therapy or steam treatment. Discussing treatment options with a healthcare provider can help determine the best approach for your individual needs.

11. What are some natural remedies to reduce prostate inflammation?

    - Natural remedies for reducing prostate inflammation may include consuming foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, such as tomatoes, green tea, and fatty fish, as well as herbal supplements like saw palmetto and stinging nettle root. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new remedies or supplements.

12. What are the steps to enhance prostate health?

 - There are several steps to improve one’s prostate health. One need to sustain a healthy weight, consume more veggies, reduce the consumption of red meat, engage in regular exercise, drink plenty of water every day, control tension and quit smoking.