The prostate gland, located beneath the bladder, is an essential endocrine gland responsible for certain reproductive functions in men. However, in the United States alone, more than 200,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year — most of them through the PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test, which was approved by the U.S. FDA in 1986.

If PSA levels are found high, doctors usually recommend a biopsy, and once cancer cells are detected, patients are almost immediately pushed toward robotic prostatectomy or radiation therapy.

But here’s where the controversy begins.

Many experts argue that prostate surgeries have turned into a multi-billion-dollar Medicare-driven business. In fact, over $4 billion is spent every year in the U.S. alone on invasive prostate procedures.

• In 2012, billionaire Warren Buffett was treated with radiation for prostate cancer

• U.S. politician Mitt Romney underwent a robotic prostatectomy

• According to New York Times (2010), 73,000 men had robotic prostatectomy in just one year

• Hospitals openly advertise how many robotic surgeries their doctors have performed — just like a sales pitch

The central allegation is that many patients are rushed into surgery even when it may not be urgently required, simply because Medicare covers the cost and the patient doesn’t have to pay.

The question arises — Is it always necessary? Or have we stopped exploring non-invasive, natural, and safer methods before opting for surgery?