‘Cancer of the prostate is on the rise’ revealed Hemas Hospitals, who went on to note that the hidden killer disease, now a global phenomenon due to the rise in ageing populations worldwide, is also seeing an upward trend among the Lankan grey male population, with many patients being diagnosed at an advanced stage, by which time the disease reaches its complicated stage.

Health authorities stress that the lives of many prostate cancer patients could be saved through early detection, followed by early treatment using new improved surgical treatments that include keyhole (Laproscopy) surgery. The good news is that this new surgical technique is now available at Hemas Hospital Wattala.

Dr Aruna Indika Nandasena, Consultant Urological Surgeon, attached to Chilaw District Hospital and visiting consultant at Hemas Hospital Wattala commented, “Since prostate cancer symptoms are similar to those of prostatitis or an enlarged prostate, there is a tendency amongst Sri Lankan adult males to ignore seeking treatment until the disease reaches its advanced stage”.

“Symptoms such as difficulty in urinating, frequent urges to urinate at night and blood in urine can indicate either prostatitis or prostate cancer. In either case, an exact diagnosis can save a lot of trouble and complications. If detected early, prostate cancer can be contained and the patient can live longer” added Dr Nandasena.

Men above the age of 60 years are prone to prostate cancer and early diagnosis and effective treatment can save lives cautioned Dr Nandasena.

Hemas Hospital Wattala is well-equipped with the latest medical technology and medical professionals to diagnose and provide comprehensive and effective care for prostate cancer.

Dr Lasantha Karunasekara, General Manager of Hemas Hospitals Wattala commenting on the operational aspect said “We possess the facilities and the expertise to use the latest laparoscopic surgical operations to treat prostate cancer. As this disease occurs mainly among the aging male population, the odds are that many will ignore the symptoms until it is too late. As medical professionals, we strongly advice consulting an urologist if anyone starts to experience the symptoms associated with prostate cancer.”

Unlike conditions such as enlarged prostate and prostatitis, prostate cancer is a life-threatening disease. In western countries, early detection and effective care has reduced the number of deaths related to prostate cancer. In South Asia however, lack of awareness and proper diagnostic facilities has increased the mortality rates linked to prostate cancer. Hemas hospiatal Wattala has introduced a special screening package to diagnose cancer in early stages. More information can be obtained from Hemas Hospital Wattala.

In conclusion Dr Karunasekara added, “As the only hospital chain to hold ACHSI (Australian Council on Healthcare International) standards, Hemas Hospital Wattala is well-geared to diagnose and treat prostate cancer effectively.”

Photo Caption: Dr Aruna Indika Nandasena, Consultant Urological Surgeon