Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, but it doesn’t behave the same way in every patient. While some prostate cancers grow very slowly and may never cause serious problems, others can be aggressive and spread rapidly if not treated early.
In this insightful article, Dr. Rahul Jena, Uro-Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon at Bagchi Sri Shankara Cancer Centre & Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, explains why prostate cancer behaves differently in different individuals and why understanding this variation is crucial for choosing the right treatment.
Understanding Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a small gland that produces seminal fluid, located just below the bladder in men. Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow uncontrollably within this gland.
However, unlike many other cancers, prostate cancer can have different growth patterns and behaviors — which means that not every diagnosis carries the same level of risk.
Why Does Prostate Cancer Behave Differently?
Several factors influence how prostate cancer progresses. According to Dr. Rahul Jena, these include genetic makeup, age, hormonal balance, lifestyle, and even environmental exposure.
Let’s explore these factors in detail:
1. Genetic Differences
Every person’s DNA is unique. Certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or HOXB13, can make prostate cancer more aggressive. Patients with a family history of prostate, breast, or ovarian cancer may carry these mutations and are at higher risk for fast-growing prostate cancers.
2. Hormonal Influence
The male hormone testosterone plays a key role in prostate cell growth. Higher levels of testosterone or its active form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), can accelerate cancer cell multiplication, leading to faster disease progression in some individuals.
3. Cancer Grade and Stage
Prostate cancers are classified using the Gleason score and TNM staging system, which help doctors understand how abnormal the cells look and how far the disease has spread.
Low-grade cancers (Gleason ≤6) are often slow-growing and may be monitored through active surveillance.
High-grade cancers (Gleason ≥8) tend to grow and spread quickly, requiring prompt treatment such as surgery or radiation.
4. Lifestyle and Overall Health
Diet, physical activity, and overall metabolic health also influence how cancer behaves. For example, obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise are associated with more aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
5. Immune Response and Biological Variability
Every person’s immune system reacts differently to cancer cells. Some patients’ immune systems can suppress tumor growth for years, while others may have a weaker defense, allowing the cancer to progress more rapidly.
Why Understanding Cancer Behavior Matters
Knowing how prostate cancer behaves in your body helps doctors personalize your treatment plan. As Dr. Rahul Jena emphasizes, “Every prostate cancer is unique — and so is every patient.”
Understanding the cancer’s growth rate and aggressiveness allows specialists to decide whether to:
Monitor the cancer closely (active surveillance)
Begin targeted treatment early (surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy)
Combine therapies for advanced or metastatic cases
This personalized approach ensures patients receive the right treatment at the right time, avoiding both under-treatment and unnecessary interventions.
Detecting and Monitoring Prostate Cancer
Early detection plays a major role in managing prostate cancer effectively. Regular screening can help identify cancer before symptoms appear.
Key screening methods include:
PSA Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen): Measures PSA levels in the blood.
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Helps assess prostate size and detect irregularities.
MRI or Biopsy: Used to confirm diagnosis and determine aggressiveness.
Dr. Jena recommends that men above 50 — or above 45 if there’s a family history — should undergo regular prostate checkups.
Treatment Options Based on Cancer Behavior
Treatment decisions depend on how aggressive the cancer is and the patient’s overall health. Common treatment options include:
Active Surveillance: For slow-growing cancers that pose minimal risk.
Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy): Removal of the prostate gland, often performed using advanced robotic techniques for precision.
Radiation Therapy: Targets and destroys cancer cells.
Hormone Therapy: Reduces testosterone levels to slow cancer growth.
Chemotherapy or Immunotherapy: For advanced or resistant cases.
Dr. Rahul Jena, a specialist in robotic urological surgery, emphasizes that minimally invasive techniques can help achieve faster recovery and better outcomes in suitable patients.
Final Thoughts
Prostate cancer is not a one-size-fits-all disease. While some men may live for decades without symptoms, others may require immediate and intensive treatment. Understanding the nature of the cancer — its pace, aggressiveness, and individual characteristics — is the foundation of effective care.
As Dr. Rahul Jena explains, “Awareness and early diagnosis save lives. Knowing how your cancer behaves empowers you to make informed decisions with your doctor.”
📍 About Dr. Rahul Jena
Dr. Rahul Jena is a specialist Uro-Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon at Bagchi Sri Shankara Cancer Centre & Research Institute, Bhubaneswar. With over a decade of experience in treating urological cancers, his expertise lies in early detection, advanced diagnostics, and minimally invasive treatments for prostate, kidney, and bladder cancers.
📍 Location:
Bagchi Sri Shankara Cancer Centre & Research Institute, Bhubaneswar
Plot No. M.I.G.-107, Baramunda HB Colony, Bhubaneswar
📞 For Appointments: +91 9938534048
🌐 Website: www.rahuljenaurology.com