Chennai, India, September 18, 2025: Marking Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the Asian Institute of Nephrology & Urology (AINU) has launched a month-long campaign in Chennai to spotlight the growing incidence of prostate cancer and the lifesaving impact of early detection. Doctors at AINU are urging men – especially those over 50 and those with a family history – to undergo timely screening and break the silence around a disease often called a “silent killer.”
Prostate cancer is now among the top five cancers in Indian men. Chennai is reporting some of the fastest rising incidence rates in the country, with cases increasing by up to 5.6% annually in certain age groups. Men aged 65-74 in Chennai face some of the highest risks in India, with age-specific incidence rates ranging from 59.9 to 75.8 per 100,000 and sharply rising to 161.6 per 100,000 in men aged 75 and above.
“Prostate cancer is highly treatable when caught early,” said Dr. Arun Kumar Balakrishnan, Managing Director, Chief Consultant Urologist, Robotic Surgeon & Uro-Oncologist, AINU Chennai. “A simple PSA blood test and clinical evaluation can change the course of a life. With this campaign, we want men to know that early checks mean better chances of cure. Robotic surgery, combined with advanced imaging, now gives us unmatched precision and faster recovery – changing outcomes for patients in a way that was unimaginable even a decade ago.”
Dr. D. Venkat Subramaniam, Executive Director, Senior Urologist & Robotic Surgeon at AINU Chennai, added: “In India, stigma and hesitation still delay diagnosis. By normalising routine prostate checks, we can help men catch cancer when it’s still curable. Our message is simple: don’t wait – screening is quick, evidence-based, and lifesaving.”
Why prostate health matters now
- Hidden threat: Prostate cancer often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only in advanced stages when treatment options are limited.
- Family history and genetics: Men with a family history of prostate cancer face a significantly higher risk, making proactive checks critical.
- Lifestyle risks: Sedentary habits, obesity, smoking, and poor diet further elevate risk, while balanced nutrition and exercise can help lower it.
AINU’s awareness drive will include educational sessions, free screening camps, and community outreach programs to empower men and families with knowledge and timely access to expert care.