On International Men’s Day, Medanta has released a short film aimed at starting a long-overdue conversation around prostate cancer – a disease that is now the second most common cancer among Indian men, affecting one in eight men in their lifetime.

The film, titled “Papa & GPT,” tells the story of an elderly father who quietly relies on online searches to understand his health problems rather than talking to his own daughter. 

When she discovers this, the emotional distance created by silence becomes clear. The message is simple and direct: men need to talk about their health, especially when it comes to prostate-related symptoms that are often ignored until the disease progresses.

Prostate cancer usually grows slowly and shows few symptoms in its early stages. Doctors say this silence can be dangerous because many men hesitate to discuss issues like difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, erectile dysfunction or unexplained pelvic or back pain. By the time symptoms become serious, the cancer may have already spread.

The film is part of Medanta’s year-long “Jaanta Hai Medanta” initiative, which focuses on early cancer detection and public awareness.

This chapter specifically targets men aged 55 and above, and those over 45 with a family history of prostate, breast or uterine cancer, who face a higher risk.

According to Dr. Puneet Ahluwalia, Senior Director and Head of Uro Oncology and Robotic Surgery at Medanta – The Medicity, Gurugram, late diagnosis is common because men often avoid discussing their symptoms. “One in eight men can develop prostate cancer in their lifetime, yet most hesitate to seek help.

Early warning signs should never be ignored. Timely consultation can prevent the disease from advancing and improves outcomes,” he said. 

He added that newer treatment options, including robotic surgery, have helped improve accuracy and reduce recovery time for many patients.

Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman and Managing Director of Medanta, said the campaign aims to address both medical and emotional gaps.

He noted that many men struggle to talk about their health, even with family members, and awareness efforts must work to reduce this hesitation.

Prostate cancer cases have been rising steadily in India, particularly among urban populations. 

While lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity may increase risk, doctors emphasise that regular screening and early diagnosis remain the most important factors in improving survival rates.

With this film, Medanta hopes to encourage families to normalise conversations around men’s health. The broader message of the campaign, “Socho Mat, Baat Karo” (Don’t overthink, talk), urges men to speak openly and seek medical advice without delay.

The initiative follows an earlier chapter focused on breast cancer awareness. Together, these efforts aim to build a culture where people recognise early signs, seek timely help, and discuss health without stigma.