For men and their families, a prostate cancer diagnosis raises many questions. What does this cancer mean? How serious is it? Which tests are needed? And where can you find the best cancer doctor in Rajasthan and the best cancer hospital in Rajasthan for proper evaluation and treatment? 

This overview explains prostate cancer in simple terms and walks through common diagnostic and treatment options, so you can approach decisions with more clarity. 

What is prostate cancer? 

The prostate is a small gland below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It produces part of the seminal fluid that carries sperm. Prostate cancer happens when cells in this gland grow in an uncontrolled way. 

Important points: 

• It usually affects men above 50 years of age. 
• Many prostate cancers grow slowly, but some can be aggressive. 
• Early cases may not cause obvious symptoms. 

Typical symptoms (when present) can include: 

• Difficulty starting or stopping urine 
• Weak or interrupted urine flow 
• Needing to pass urine more often, especially at night 
• Blood in urine or semen 
• Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis (in advanced cases) 

These signs can also be caused by non-cancerous prostate enlargement. This is why proper testing at a good centre is essential. 

How is prostate cancer diagnosed? 

A structured evaluation usually involves several steps. At the best cancer hospital in Rajasthan, these are coordinated by a urologist and/or medical or radiation oncologist. 

1. History and physical examination  The doctor asks about urinary symptoms, family history, general health, and checks the prostate via a rectal exam (digital rectal examination, or DRE) to feel for any hard or irregular areas. 
2. PSA blood test  Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein made by the prostate. Elevated PSA may suggest cancer, but can also rise with infection or benign enlargement. PSA is a useful marker but not a standalone diagnosis. 
3. Imaging tests 

Ultrasound may be used to visualize the gland. 

1. MRI of the prostate helps map suspicious areas and guide biopsy. 
2. For more advanced disease, scans such as bone scan, CT, or PET may be advised to see if the cancer has spread. 
3. Prostate biopsy  This is the key test. Small samples of tissue are taken from the prostate, usually through the rectum (TRUS-guided biopsy) or via the perineum (between scrotum and anus). A pathologist examines the tissue under a microscope and confirms if cancer is present and how aggressive it looks (Gleason score / Grade Group). 
4. Staging and risk assessment  Using PSA level, biopsy results, and imaging, the team classifies the cancer as low, intermediate, or high risk, and whether it is confined to the prostate or has spread. Treatment decisions are based on this staging. 

Treatment options for prostate cancer 

The right treatment depends on age, overall health, cancer stage and risk, and patient preferences. A centre that aims to be the best cancer hospital in Rajasthan will offer multiple options and discuss them clearly. 

1. Active surveillance / watchful waiting 

For some low-risk, slow-growing cancers in older or medically fragile patients, immediate aggressive treatment may not be needed. Instead: 

• Regular PSA tests 
• Repeat examinations 
• Repeat biopsies or imaging as advised 

Treatment is started only if there are signs of progression. This approach avoids side effects in men whose cancer may never cause serious problems. 

2. Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy) 

Surgery involves removing the entire prostate gland and often nearby lymph nodes. It may be done through: 

• Open surgery 
• Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery 
• Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery (in some centres) 

Surgery is usually considered for localized disease in men who are fit for an operation. The surgeon will discuss potential side effects, such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and how these can be managed. 

3. Radiation therapy 

Radiation uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. It can be given as: 

• External beam radiation therapy (EBRT): Radiation from a machine outside the body, given daily over several weeks. 
• Brachytherapy (internal radiation): Radioactive seeds or sources placed directly into or near the prostate (available in specialized centres). 

Radiation can be a primary treatment for localized cancer, an alternative to surgery, or used after surgery if needed. Side effects may include urinary, bowel, or sexual changes, many of which improve over time with proper care. 

4. Androgen deprivation therapy (hormone therapy) 

Prostate cancer often grows in response to male hormones (androgens, mainly testosterone). Hormone therapy lowers or blocks these hormones and is used: 

• For advanced or metastatic prostate cancer 
• Along with radiation in intermediate or high-risk disease 
• After surgery or radiation if cancer returns 

It can be given as injections, tablets, or both. Common effects include hot flashes, fatigue, loss of sexual desire, and bone thinning. 

5. Advanced systemic treatments 

For some patients with metastatic or resistant disease, options may include: 

• Newer hormone-blocking agents 
• Chemotherapy 
• Targeted therapies 
• Immunotherapy (in selected cases) 

An experienced best cancer doctor in Rajasthan will explain when these are appropriate and how they combine with other treatments. 

Why hospital and doctor choice matters 

Prostate cancer care often spans years. You need: 

• Accurate diagnosis and staging 
• A clear explanation of alternatives (surgery, radiation, medicines, surveillance) 
• Access to modern technology and experienced specialists 
• Support for side-effect management, diet, exercise, and long-term follow-up 

A good cancer treatment team includes urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses who work together. When these services are available in one place, it becomes easier for you to get coordinated, timely care. 

If you are looking for the best cancer doctor in Rajasthan or the best cancer hospital in Rajasthan for prostate cancer, consider centres that provide multidisciplinary care, evidence-based treatment options, and transparent communication. Early evaluation, a clear plan, and regular follow-up can greatly influence outcomes and quality of life for men living with prostate cancer.