Category Archives: Health

CMRI Hospital hosts Walkathon to Celebrate Patients’ Experience Week

Kolkata, October 10, 2025: The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI), a unit of CK Birla Hospitals, hosted a special Walkathon to commemorate Patients’ Experience Week 2025. The event celebrated the extraordinary bond between patients, doctors, nurses, and hospital staff — a bond that goes beyond treatment to embody compassion, trust, and hope.

The Walkathon was led by Mr. Sombrata Roy, Unit Head, CK Birla Hospitals – CMRI, Kolkata, and attended by several dignitaries from the Government of West Bengal. The initiative aimed to bring together the extended CMRI family ,  from caregivers and healthcare professionals to those who once battled critical illnesses and emerged stronger.

Adding a deeply emotional touch to the event, many former patients who had once faced life-threatening conditions and lost all hope of survival joined the Walkathon, walking hand-in-hand with their doctors and caregivers. Their presence stood as a powerful symbol of human resilience, medical excellence, and the enduring spirit of healing that CMRI stands for.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sombrata Roy, Unit Head, CK Birla Hospitals CMRI, Kolkata, says, “Patients’ Experience Week is a tribute to the extraordinary journey of healing that unites patients, caregivers, and healthcare teams. This Walkathon is our way of celebrating that bond one that extends beyond hospital walls. Seeing our former patients, some of whom fought the most critical battles of their lives, walking beside their doctors today is the greatest testament to the power of hope, trust, and compassionate care.”

The event, flagged off from the CMRI campus early in the morning, witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of people , including recovered patients, healthcare professionals, and well-wishers — all walking together to celebrate life and the healing journey. The Walkathon reaffirmed CMRI’s commitment to clinical excellence with empathy, where every recovery is not just a medical success but a human story of courage and care.

Aditya Birla Academy and Mpower Promote Youth Mental Health with The Happy Place Festival

Mumbai, October 9th, 2025: In an age dominated by social media validation, online gaming pressures, and digital fatigue, young people are facing unprecedented mental health challenges. According to the National Mental Health Survey of India, nearly 1 in 7 adolescents aged 13–17 years’ experience mental health issues, yet fewer than 10% receive adequate support. Experts warn that the combination of online comparison, academic stress, and emotional isolation has made it critical to begin mental health awareness at the school level—where resilience, empathy, and help-seeking behaviours can be cultivated early.

To encourage open dialogue and build emotional literacy among students, Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), in collaboration with Mpower—an initiative of the Aditya Birla Education Trust—hosted”, a “The Happy Place: Inside Out 2.0n inter-school festival designed to normalize conversations around mental health and self-expression.

Held ahead of World Mental Health Day, the festival brought together 212 students from 16 schools across Mumbai and neighbouring regions. Through creative formats including drama, dance, poetry, short film, art, singing, and extempore speech, participants explored this year’s theme, “Inside Out”—an invitation to acknowledge one’s emotions, express them authentically, and find confidence in individuality.

“The Happy Place is an extension of what we nurture every day at Aditya Birla World Academy — an environment where emotional well-being is valued as much as academic excellence, said Ms. Shalini John, Principal, Aditya Birla World Academy. Through initiatives like The Happy Place, students engage creatively — through dance, drama, poetry, and other expressive forms — to explore their emotions and connect meaningfully with one another. This integration has fostered a culture where children feel safe to express themselves, support their peers, and approach challenges with empathy and resilience. The theme Inside Out 2.0 – An Upgrade on Emotional Awareness encouraged students to look within with honesty and authenticity. It helped us nurture not just confident and capable individuals, but a compassionate community where mental well-being is embraced as a shared priority. The Happy Place was created to give our students exactly that space — to celebrate expression, empathy, and emotional strength.”

“Children today are growing up in a world where digital comparison and constant connectivity often shape their sense of self,” said Ms Parveen Shaikh, President, Mpower “Our Minds Matter curriculum has shown that when mental health education begins early, it changes everything — over 80% of students report better stress management, greater confidence, and stronger academic engagement. Initiatives like The Happy Place build on that foundation by taking emotional learning beyond the classroom. They encourage students to speak openly, express creatively, and understand that mental health is not a taboo but a shared responsibility. The earlier we start these conversations, the more resilient and empathetic our young people will become.”

The interschool festival, conceptualized and led by ABWA students, saw remarkable interpretations of the theme. Performances such as “Unmute: The Emotional Reboot” and “Messy Minds, Textured Truths” encouraged participants to translate emotional experiences

into creative expression—turning introspection into art. Judges praised the originality, empathy, and insight reflected across entries.

Among the schools that participated, Bombay International School, JBCN International School, Oshiwara, and RIMS International School, Vashi, engaged enthusiastically throughout the event. Across all activities, students explored their emotions deeply and creatively, showing that conversations about feelings, vulnerability, and resilience can be both meaningful and enjoyable.

The event also aimed to break the stigma surrounding mental health discussions within school environments. By framing emotional well-being as a shared journey rather than a taboo topic, The Happy Place exemplified how schools can act as catalysts for cultural change—helping students develop both self-awareness and empathy.

ABWA and Mpower plan to continue collaborating on youth-focused initiatives that combine creativity with emotional education, reinforcing the message that mental health is as vital as academic success.

Apollo Cancer Centres Raises Awareness on Hereditary Cancer

Chennai, 8th October 2025: Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC), one of India’s foremost cancer care networks, is leading the charge during Hereditary Cancer Awareness Week to highlight the critical importance of recognizing hereditary cancers. The focus is on to emphasize early detection through genetic testing and proactive screening, aiming to educate families, empower high-risk individuals, and underscore how timely intervention can save lives.

Hereditary cancers arise from inherited gene mutations passed from parents to children, which increase, but do not confirm, the risk of developing cancer. These mutations disrupt genes responsible for cell growth, repair, and tumour suppression. Globally, hereditary cancers account for 5–10% of all cancers (PMC.NCBI), while most are caused by lifestyle, environmental factors, or random mutations. Common hereditary cancer syndromes include Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC), Lynch syndrome, and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis.

In India, breast cancer accounted for 1,78,361 cases and ovarian cancer for 45,701 cases in 2020 (Globocan Report). Over 10% of these are linked to BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, with prevalence across Indian studies ranging from 2.9% to 28% (IJMIO). Other gene mutations linked to HBOC remain underreported. Lynch syndrome, which causes 2–3% of colorectal cancers (ScienceDirect), is also associated with elevated risks of cancers in the endometrium, stomach, pancreas, ovary, urinary tract, and more. Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) is a rare inherited condition causing numerous colon polyps and a near-certain risk of colorectal cancer by age 40, with limited data available in India (NCBI).

Against this backdrop, ACC Chennai recently treated a remarkable case of familial clustering where four members of a single family from Guwahati, spanning two generations, were diagnosed with cancers linked to Lynch syndrome. The mother, Mrs. Namita Dey, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 50 years and treated in 2011, while her daughter, Mrs. Deepa Ghosh, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 26 years and treated in 2012. More recently, her other two children, Mrs. Shikha Sarkar and Mr. Mathura Nath Dey, both diagnosed at 40 years, were treated in 2024 for right colon cancer. All four are currently doing well, underscoring how timely intervention and surgical care can change treatment outcomes to lead a better-quality life.

Speaking about the significance of this case, Dr. Venkat P, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, said, “These cases clearly demonstrate that cancer is not always sporadic—it can often be inherited and run through families across generations. When multiple family members are affected, it is a strong signal that genetic factors may be at play. In such high-risk families, genetic counselling and proactive screening become invaluable tools. They not only help us identify individuals who may be predisposed but also enable us to take preventive or early treatment measures, offering patients the best chance of cure, survival, and improved quality of life.”

Adding perspective, Dr. Priya Kapoor, Consultant  Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, noted, “Families with multiple cases of colorectal, ovarian, or endometrial cancers must take their medical history seriously and not dismiss these patterns as coincidence. Such clustering is often the first indication of an inherited cancer syndrome. Genetic testing becomes the essential first step in identifying those at risk, followed by structured surveillance plans. Regular colonoscopies, timely removal of polyps, and in some cases even preventive surgeries, allow us to intervene before cancers fully develop—helping save lives and reducing the emotional and physical toll on families.”

The Patient said, “When cancer struck not just one but four of us in our family, it felt overwhelming and frightening. But our Doctors at Apollo Cancer Centres, helped us, not just with treatment, but guidance and compassion at every step. Today, we are all doing well, and we carry hope instead of fear. It has shown me that even when cancer runs in families, timely care can truly change the story.”

Reinforcing ACC’s commitment, Mr. Harshad Reddy, Director, Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “At Apollo Cancer Centres, our commitment goes far beyond offering advanced treatment—we see it as our responsibility to lead awareness and education on cancers that can be inherited. Too often, families don’t realize that cancer can run in their genes until multiple members are affected. Awareness, when combined with timely action, is the strongest weapon to win over cancer.”

The event highlighted ACC’s expertise in hereditary cancers, featuring insights from the treating oncologists and showcasing real-life patient cases. Through these efforts, ACC continues to reinforce its leadership in hereditary cancer education, raising awareness about genetic risk, early detection, and proactive care, and demonstrating its commitment to improving patient outcomes across India.

Wacoal India Reaffirms Commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness with CPAA in 4th Edition of #WacoalKnowsBreast

Wacoal India Reaffirms its commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness with CPAA in the 4th Edition of #WacoalKnowsBreast Initiative

India, 7th October 2025: Wacoal, the premium lingerie brand from Japan, continues its enduring commitment to breast cancer awareness through the 4th edition of its flagship initiative, #WacoalKnowsBreast, in partnership with the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA). CPAA is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to ‘Total Management of Cancer’, which encompasses Awareness, Early Detection, Support for treatment, Guidance and Counseling, Rehabilitation, Research Studies and Advocacy. 

This year, the initiative is amplified through the #WacoalKnowsBreast social media campaign designed to encourage regular self-checks, debunk myths, and make conversations around breast health more accessible for women across India. 

As part of the initiative, a portion of proceeds from every bra purchased in October will go towards supporting CPAA’s breast cancer programs. To further symbolize their commitment, Wacoal India will once again spotlight the 3-finger salute, a symbolic gesture where one places their right hand on their left chest and forms the number 3 with their fingers. This represents a self-check test that individuals can perform to check their breasts for lumps while also embodying the alphabet ‘W’ for Wacoal. 

Ms. Pooja Merani, COO-Wacoal India, expressed her thoughts on the initiative, stating, “Breast cancer is one of the most pressing health concerns for women today, but the power of early detection cannot be overstated. At Wacoal, we are committed to going beyond being a lingerie brand, we want to be a partner in women’s well-being. Through this partnership with CPAA and the #WacoalKnowsBreast campaign, we aim to not only spread awareness but also ensure that women feel supported in their journey towards health and confidence. We hope to make a considerable impact in this area and make it accessible to all women in need.”

Ms. Alka Bisen, CEO of the Cancer Patients Aid Association shared her perspective on the collaboration with Wacoal: “Breast cancer continues to be one of the most significant health challenges for women, and the key to overcoming it lies in awareness and early detection. Through our partnership with Wacoal, we are able to amplify this message, encourage regular self-checks, and provide timely support to those affected. Together, we want to create an environment where women feel informed, empowered, and unafraid to prioritize their health.”

The social media campaign also addresses a common misconception: that eating healthy and staying active alone can safeguard women from breast cancer. By reinforcing that anyone can be at risk, Wacoal positions the simple 3-finger test as a routine practice that every woman can easily incorporate into her daily life. Through these conversations, Wacoal seeks to break taboos, promote early detection, and inspire women across India to take proactive steps toward health, ultimately leading to healthier futures for women across India.

Abbott Launches AVEIR™ DR, The World’s First Dual Chamber Leadless Pacemaker in India

New Delhi, October 6, 2025 – Global healthcare leader Abbott has announced the launch of the AVEIR™ dual chamber (DR) leadless pacemaker system in India — marking a major medical milestone as the world’s first leadless pacemaker capable of pacing both chambers of the heart.

Pacemakers are life-saving devices that help manage bradycardia, a condition where the heart beats too slowly. Traditional systems rely on wires (leads) and surgical pockets to regulate the heartbeat. In contrast, leadless pacemakers are miniature, self-contained devices that are implanted directly into the heart using a catheter, eliminating the need for wires and reducing complications.

Until now, leadless technology was limited to single-chamber pacing, but Abbott’s AVEIR DR system changes that with its implant-to-implant (i2i) communication technology. This allows two tiny devices—one in the atrium and one in the ventricle—to communicate beat-by-beat in real time, achieving synchronised, dual-chamber pacing for the first time ever without wires.

This innovation is particularly relevant for India, where approximately one in three pacemaker patients require dual-chamber pacing.

“As leadless pacing technology has evolved, we’ve built upon our AVEIR VR single-chamber platform to expand the benefits to far more people,” said Ajay Singh Chauhan, General Manager for Abbott’s cardiac rhythm management business in India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Korea. “This tiny device packed with powerful technology is designed to treat abnormal heart rhythms more precisely and effectively.”

Alive Wellness Clinics Hosts ‘The Glow Affair’ with Riddhima Kapoor Sahni in Delhi

New Delhi, October, 03 2025: Alive Wellness Clinics, India’s leading destination for integrative skincare and wellness, founded by Dr. Chiranjiv Chhabra, hosted The Glow Affair, an evening dedicated to skincare, beauty, and holistic wellbeing at its flagship clinic in Lajpat Nagar. The event brought together friends of the brand, wellness seekers, and skincare enthusiasts for an afternoon of discovery, conversation, and indulgence.

The gathering was made even more special with the presence of Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Face of the Brand, who was warmly greeted by guests and shared her personal take on beauty and wellness. Attendees also had the chance to meet and engage with her directly, making the evening interactive and memorable.

Guests further explored a curated showcase of Alive’s signature offerings, from focus medi-facials and personalised therapies to simplified skincare education. Guests were also introduced to some of the clinic’s most sought-after complementary services, including Exosomes, Skin Boosters, Lymphatic Drainage, I-Lipo, Diamond Oxy, Microneedling, and more, offering them a first-hand experience of the science and care behind modern skin health.

Speaking about the event, Dr. Chiranjiv Chhabra, Chief Dermatologist and Founder of Alive Wellness Clinics, said, “The Glow Affair is about bringing people closer to the possibilities of modern skincare while keeping it approachable and enjoyable. At Alive, we believe that real results come from a thoughtful blend of expertise, innovation, and everyday wellness practices, and that’s what we wanted our guests to experience firsthand.”

The evening went beyond treatments, creating an engaging environment. Guests enjoyed one-on-one consultations, quick luxe services, artisanal bites and sips, and exclusive event offers, making The Glow Affair a true celebration of wellness inside and out.

With this initiative, Alive Wellness Clinics reaffirmed its vision of creating spaces where expertise, self-care, and everyday confidence come together in a refreshing and meaningful way.

About Alive Wellness Clinics

Established in 1997 by Dr. Chiranjiv Chhabra, Alive Wellness Clinics has become a trusted name in transformative skin, body and hair and wellness care in India. Believing that beauty goes beyond the surface, the clinics combine advanced dermatology, clean science, and holistic healing into a cohesive experience. From personalised consultations to cutting-edge therapies, Alive Wellness Clinics continues to set benchmarks where modern expertise meets mindful living.

Majority of Indians Face Cholesterol Imbalance, Raising Heart Risk: Redcliffe Labs Study

Over 80% Indians Show Lipid Derangements and Cholesterol Imbalance, Heightening Heart Risk, Reveals Redcliffe Labs’ Study

India, September 29, 2025: A comprehensive nationwide study by Redcliffe Labs, one of India’s fastest-growing diagnostic service providers, has uncovered deeply concerning trends in lipid, cardiac, and diabetes health markers across the country. Despite the rising burden of lifestyle-related diseases, preventive health checks remain underutilized, resulting in missed opportunities for early intervention.

The study analyzed over 7 million tests conducted between FY24 and FY25 and paints a troubling picture of India’s heart health:

• More than 40% of individuals showed signs of diabetes derangement, including abnormal HbA1c, fasting, or random glucose levels — significantly increasing their cardiovascular risk.

• These issues were more prevalent in men, making them especially vulnerable to sudden cardiac events.

• Lipid derangements (cholesterol and triglyceride imbalances), a key cause of heart disease, affected over 70% in 2024, and this rose to over 80% in 2025 — indicating a sharp year-on-year increase.

Dr. Prashant Nag, Chief Operating Medical Officer at Redcliffe Labs, commented:
“Unhealthy eating habits and sedentary lifestyles are a major culprit. Processed foods are easily accessible and widely consumed, leading to a dangerous cycle of high cholesterol, clogged arteries, and increased cardiac emergencies.”

Surprisingly, the health crisis is most pronounced in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Noida, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Ghaziabad, Patna, and Lucknow — where awareness and access to healthcare are relatively higher, but unhealthy lifestyle patterns persist.

The study also revealed:

• A rise in cardiac risk marker derangements from 60% in 2024 to 65% in 2025, with women showing higher abnormalities.

  • This suggests women may exhibit earlier signs of cardiac risk, offering a critical window for early intervention.

• Early onset of risk factors like high cholesterol and elevated blood sugar in young adults, including those under 20, especially in urban areas.

  • Diseases once associated with middle or older age are now appearing in younger, working-age populations.

Aditya Kandoi, CEO & Founder of Redcliffe Labs, said: “India cannot afford to sleepwalk into a cardiac epidemic. These aren’t just numbers — they’re indicators of a national health crisis. What’s even more concerning is that many people don’t get tested until it’s too late.”

To address this gap, Redcliffe Labs recently launched India’s Wake-Up Test, a bold initiative that offers a 100% refund if the test reports are 100% normal — encouraging healthy individuals to test without hesitation.

“If you’re healthy, you pay nothing — but if something is found, you gain the chance to act early,” Kandoi added.“Prevention is not an expense; it’s an investment in the nation’s future. We urge every Indian to prioritize regular health checks — for themselves, their families, and for a healthier India.”

Aster Medcity Performs Kerala’s First Non-Surgical Fontan for Single-Ventricle Heart

Aster Medcity Performs Kerala’s First Non- Surgical Fontan Procedure on Children with Single-Ventricle Heart

Kochi, 29th September 2025: Aster Medcity has achieved a major milestone in pediatric cardiology by successfully performing Kerala’s first-ever Transcatheter Fontan completions—a non-surgical alternative for children with complex congenital heart defects. The groundbreaking procedures were performed on two young children, offering them a less invasive path to improved heart function without the need for open-heart surgery.

The Fontan completion is the final and critical stage in the treatment of children born with single-ventricle physiology, a condition where only one heart chamber effectively pumps blood. Traditionally, this requires major surgery to connect the inferior vena cava (IVC) to the pulmonary artery, allowing oxygen-poor blood to reach the lungs without passing through the heart.

One of the first recipients was a five-year-old girl from Idukki, diagnosed with pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum, who had previously undergone a Glenn shunt in infancy. Her case was particularly complex due to her family’s Jehovah’s Witness faith, which prohibits blood transfusions, making traditional surgery too risky. The Aster team successfully completed the Fontan circulation using a covered stent, and she was discharged in five days. Two months later, she is thriving.

The second case involved a four-and-a-half-year-old boy from Ernakulam, born with a double inlet left ventricle. Having already undergone two surgeries, his family sought a minimally invasive alternative to avoid a third open-heart procedure. After careful planning and CT imaging, a covered stent was placed, completing the Fontan pathway. The child recovered quickly with no complications.

“This innovative approach offers new hope to families of children with complex heart defects, and we are proud to introduce this advanced, non-surgical treatment in Kerala,” said Dr. Edwin Francis, Director & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Cardiology, Aster Medcity, Kochi.

Both procedures represent a transformative shift in managing single-ventricle heart conditions—achieving Fontan circulation without major incisions, bypass, or blood transfusions.

Zydus and Pinkathon join hands to drive awareness on breast cancer across India

Zydus Lifesciences and Pinkathon Announce 10th Edition of Mumbai Pinkathon to Champion Women’s Health and Breast Cancer Awareness

Mumbai, September 25, 2025 —Zydus Lifesciences Ltd., a global innovation-driven healthcare company, in collaboration with Pinkathon, India’s largest women’s run, today announced the 10th edition of the Mumbai Pinkathon, to be held on 21st December 2025 at MMRDA Grounds, BKC. This marks the beginning of a six-city initiative across 2025–26 under the banner of Zydus Pinkathon, aimed at raising awareness on breast cancer and women’s health.

Uniting Fitness and Awareness

The announcement was made in the presence of:

• Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences Ltd.

• Meha Patel, Vice-Chairperson, Zydus Foundation

• Milind Soman, Actor, Fitness Icon & Founder of Pinkathon

• Ankita Konwar, Founder of Invincible Women

Together, they underlined the significance of regular self-breast exams and the role Zydus Pinkathon plays in encouraging early detection and proactive healthcare among women.

Dr. Sharvil Patel remarked,“With the Easiest Exam campaign, we want to empower women with the knowledge that a simple 3-minute self-exam each month can be life-saving. Through our partnership with Pinkathon, we aim to reach more women, raise awareness, and drive meaningful action in the fight against breast cancer.”

Milind Soman, Founder of Pinkathon, added,“Pinkathon has always championed women’s health, strength, and inclusivity. With Zydus as our Title Partner, we are taking this mission nationwide—encouraging every woman to prioritise her health and fitness.”

Meha Patel, Vice-Chairperson, Zydus Foundation, stated,“A woman’s wellbeing is central to the happiness of her family. Promoting regular self-breast exams is a small but vital step in addressing the alarming rise in breast cancer cases. As we say: ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivaar.’”

Event Details: Mumbai to Kick Off National Series

The Mumbai edition of Zydus Pinkathon will feature multiple run categories for varying fitness levels:

• 3 km, 5 km, and 10 km

• Ultra-distances of 50 km, 75 km, 100 km, and 100 km relay under the Invincible Women initiative

Registrations are now open across all categories.

Following Mumbai, Zydus Pinkathon will travel to Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Chennai, engaging over 30,000 women nationwide over the next nine months.

The Easiest Exam Campaign Returns in October

Coinciding with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Zydus will launch the second edition of its impactful campaign — The Easiest Exam — encouraging women to perform a simple three-minute self-breast exam.

With the powerful message — “Do haath, teen minute aur ek easy exam” — the campaign will include:

• Nationwide awareness drives

• Podcasts and expert-led conversations

• Stories from breast cancer warriors

• On-ground community events

The goal: combat stigma, dispel myths, and empower women with life-saving knowledge.

Why It Matters

Breast cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent cancers among women in India. Over 2 lakh women are diagnosed every year, and tragically, a woman dies from breast cancer every 8 minutes—often due to late diagnosis. Early detection through regular self-checks can significantly improve survival rates.

Why Talking Openly About Prostate Health is Essential for Early Detection

India, 24th sept 2025: Prostate health is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of men’s overall well-being. While conversations about breast cancer and women’s health have become more normalized in recent years, discussions surrounding prostate health, particularly prostate cancer, remain more taboo. This silence is not only detrimental to men’s health but also directly impacts the effectiveness of early detection and intervention.

The Importance of Prostate Health

The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder that plays a role in producing semen. As men age, their prostate undergoes various changes, some of which may lead to health problems. One of the most common issues affecting the prostate is prostate cancer, a condition that can be slow-growing and asymptomatic in its early stages.

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the U.S. It’s estimated that 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. While the survival rates for prostate cancer are generally high, especially when detected early, many men remain unaware of their risks or delay seeking medical advice due to embarrassment, fear, or lack of awareness.

Breaking the Silence: The Role of Open Communication

1. Encouraging Early Detection

One of the biggest barriers to early detection of prostate issues is the reluctance to talk about prostate health. Many men, particularly those under the age of 50, may not think about their prostate until they experience symptoms, which often don’t appear until the condition has advanced.

Early detection through screenings like the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test or a digital rectal exam (DRE) can identify potential issues long before they develop into life-threatening conditions. However, for many men, the thought of discussing their prostate health with a doctor is daunting, and they may avoid necessary tests or consultations.

When men are encouraged to openly discuss prostate health with their healthcare providers, they’re more likely to undergo regular screenings, which can lead to earlier detection of problems like prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. Early detection is a game-changer, as it improves the chances of successful treatment and survival.

2. Reducing Stigma Around Prostate Health

A major reason why many men avoid conversations about their prostate is the stigma surrounding it. The topic of men’s sexual and reproductive health has long been shrouded in discomfort and taboo. Discussions about urination issues, erectile dysfunction, and sexual health are often seen as embarrassing or personal.

By talking openly about prostate health, men can help reduce the shame associated with these health concerns. Normalizing conversations about issues like frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, or blood in the urine can encourage others to seek medical help rather than suffer in silence. Over time, these open conversations can also lead to better-informed communities and reduce the anxiety men may feel when faced with prostate-related issues.

3. Empowering Men to Take Control of Their Health

Men often face societal pressures to be stoic, strong, and unaffected by illness. This cultural expectation can discourage many from seeking medical attention when needed, leading to delayed diagnoses and more severe health outcomes. Open discussions about prostate health can empower men to take charge of their health, encourage them to undergo preventive screenings, and foster a sense of agency in managing their well-being.

When men understand that regular checkups are not only for when they’re feeling sick but are also an essential part of maintaining their health, they’re more likely to prioritize prostate screenings as part of their routine healthcare.

The Benefits of Early Detection

The earlier prostate problems are detected, the easier they are to treat. Here are a few key benefits of early detection:

1. Better Survival Rates for Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer often develops slowly, and when caught early, it has a high survival rate. In fact, nearly 99% of men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer survive for at least five years after their diagnosis. Early detection allows for less aggressive treatment options, reducing the risk of side effects like incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
2. Prevention of Complications: Prostate health problems that are left untreated can lead to complications such as urinary retention, kidney damage, or bladder infections. Detecting and addressing these issues early on can prevent the need for more complex treatments down the road.
3. Improved Quality of Life: When men address prostate issues early, they have a better chance of managing their symptoms and maintaining their quality of life. Timely intervention can help mitigate the impact of symptoms such as urinary difficulties or sexual dysfunction, which are common in prostate conditions.

Why Should Men Get Regular Prostate Screenings?

Prostate health screenings are especially important for men at higher risk, including those who:

• Are over the age of 50 (or 45 for those with a family history of prostate cancer).
• Have a family history of prostate cancer or other related cancers.
• Are of African descent, as studies show African-American men are at higher risk.
• Experience symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, blood in urine, or pain during urination.

The two most common prostate screenings are:

• PSA Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen): A blood test that measures the level of PSA, a substance produced by the prostate. High levels of PSA can indicate prostate cancer, although other conditions like BPH or prostatitis can cause elevated PSA levels.
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): In this exam, a doctor manually checks the prostate for abnormalities in size, shape, and texture. Although it’s not as commonly used today due to the availability of PSA testing, it can still help identify issues with the prostate.

Moving Forward: Men’s Health Advocacy

Healthcare providers, community leaders, and public health organizations must continue to promote open dialogue around prostate health. Campaigns that encourage men to talk openly about their health and seek early screenings can go a long way in addressing this often-neglected aspect of men’s well-being.

Conclusion

Open conversations about prostate health are essential for encouraging early detection, reducing stigma, and empowering men to take control of their health. Early screening and intervention can significantly improve the prognosis for prostate cancer and other prostate-related conditions, leading to better outcomes and a higher quality of life. By normalizing discussions about prostate health, we can foster a culture of awareness, prevention, and proactive care, ultimately ensuring that more men are informed, supported, and able to make decisions that benefit their long-term health.

The time has come for men to talk openly about prostate health—because when they do, they give themselves the best chance for a healthy future.