'Prostate cancer on the rise in Mangalore'

MANGALORE: There is a sharp increase in prostate cancer cases in the city, according to Dr Kumar Swamy, senior consultant, radiation oncologist, Health Care Global (HCG) Enterprises Ltd of Bangalore.
Speaking to mediapersons here on Friday he said, "In 1982, only about four prostate cancer cases were reported in Mangalore. However, in the past few years we are witnessing nearly 60 cancer cases in a year.There is a need to create awareness on the disease among people and HCG is ready to offer free treatment to curable cancers for poor patients."
"Over the years, prostate cancer treatment has seen a sea of change. Earlier, patients' testis was removed during treatment. Today, we don't remove the organ. Instead of normal radiation therapy, which last for eight weeks, patients are given an option to do robotic radio surgery. Its duration is just two weeks," he added.
He pointed out that advanced treatment methods have reduced the side effects of the radiation therapy.
Dr Radheshyam, consultant, medical oncologist of HCG, said, "Prostate cancer is increasing because of changing food habits, and lack of exercises and physical activities. It is found mostly in people in the age group of 50 to 60. It is recommended to individuals with a family history of this disease to undergo screening as early as 35 years of age."