Clinical Characteristics of Prostate Cancer in India: Insights from Hospital-Based Cancer Registries.

Abstract

To analyse the clinicopathological characteristics of prostate cancer using data from Hospital Based Cancer Registries (HBCRs) under India's National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), providing real-world insights into its management across health care institutions despite existing standardised treatment guidelines. We conducted a descriptive analysis of prostate cancer, examining key parameters such as age, diagnostic techniques, primary histological classification (categorised using the ICD -O3), disease stage at presentation(localised, loco regional, or distant metastasis), treatment intent modalities and the time interval between diagnosis and treatment initiation, utilising the data from Hospital Based Cancer Registries(HBCRs). 75.6% of total prostate cancer cases occurred in the age group of 60-80 years. Adenocarcinoma was the most common pathology, constituting 77% of cases. At the time of presentation, 57% of cases were diagnosed with localised (29.9%) or locoregional (27%) cancer, while 43% of patients presented with distant metastasis. Thirty per cent underwent surgical treatment, and 22% received radiation therapy. Systemic therapy was the most common single modality treatment. Our study indicates that over 80% of patients commence treatment within two months of diagnosis, but referral systems and delays in care persist. To address these challenges, the healthcare system must prioritise improving referral efficiency, reducing administrative bottlenecks, enhancing coordination through digital health records, and multidisciplinary tumour boards.