The use of robotic prostatectomy and radiation therapy in treating prostate cancer has come under scrutiny. According to Dr. Baba Steve Bedi, many of these procedures offer little improvement in survival rates and significantly damage patients’ quality of life.

He cites statistics showing over 200,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually in the U.S. Many undergo PSA tests followed by biopsies, leading to surgical intervention. However, according to studies, these treatments often result in permanent side effects, including incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and psychological trauma.

Even high-profile figures like Mitt Romney and Warren Buffett underwent robotic prostatectomies or radiation therapy, raising questions about whether patients are being over-treated simply because they are covered by Medicare.

“These are not just surgeries — they are life-altering interventions with irreversible consequences,” Dr. Bedi said. “And unfortunately, patients are often not fully informed about the side effects.”

He also points to the aggressive marketing tactics of robotic surgeons, who promote their success based on volume, not patient outcomes. “Surgeons are judged by how many operations they do — not how well their patients recover,” he added.

Dr. Bedi proposes a non-invasive 90-day “PSA Zero Program” that includes lifestyle changes, natural therapies, and monitoring before opting for surgery. “In many cases, prostate cancer is slow-growing and doesn’t require immediate treatment. Education, not surgery, should be the first step.”