Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. According to the National Cancer Centre Singapore, prostate cancer is the top occurring cancer affecting Singaporean males (2019 – 2023), accounting for 18% of all cancers diagnosed in men.
While early-stage prostate cancer often has no noticeable symptoms, detecting clinically significant prostate cancer at an earlier stage may provide more treatment options and improve outcomes. However, not all prostate cancers are aggressive, and some slow-growing cancers may not cause significant problems in early stages.
Understanding the risk factors and screening options for prostate cancer is therefore important when making informed decisions about prostate health.
What is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system that sits below the bladder. It produces fluid that forms part of semen and helps support sperm.
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour. In many cases, prostate cancer develops slowly and may not cause symptoms for years. However, some forms are more aggressive and can progress or spread quickly, making early detection important, particularly for clinically significant cancers.
Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer
Knowing the various risk factors for prostate cancer is important for assessing an individual’s risk and making informed decisions about screening. While the exact cause is not fully understood, several factors can increase a man’s risk:
- Age – The risk of prostate cancer increases as men get older, particularly after the age of 50.
- Family History – Men with a family history of prostate cancer, particularly in a first-degree relative such as a father or brother, have an increased risk.
- Genetics – Certain inherited gene mutations, such as changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
- Lifestyle factors – Obesity, low levels of physical activity and certain dietary patterns may be associated with an increased risk.
Having one or more risk factors does not mean that a man will develop prostate cancer. However, understanding these risk factors can help men and their doctors assess individual risk and make informed decisions about whether and when prostate cancer screening may be appropriate.
Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
Early prostate cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, some men may experience:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty starting or maintaining urination
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Discomfort or pain in the pelvic area or lower back
These symptoms do not necessarily mean prostate cancer and are often caused by other conditions, such as benign enlargement of the prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH). However, men experiencing persistent or concerning urinary symptoms should consult a doctor for appropriate evaluation.
Screening for Prostate Cancer in Singapore
Prostate cancer screening may help detect prostate cancer before symptoms develop. At Alliance Medical Centre, patients can discuss the potential benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening with our doctors based on factors such as age, family history and individual risk. When necessary, we offer the following prostate health assessment services:
- Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test: PSA is a protein produced by both normal and cancerous cells of the prostate. An elevated PSA level can be associated with prostate cancer, but can also occur due to other conditions such as benign prostate enlargement or inflammation.
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): A doctor examines the prostate through the rectum to assess its size, shape and consistency. DRE may be used as part of a clinical assessment, particularly when there are symptoms or other concerns about prostate health.
- Prostate Ultrasound: An ultrasound examination can be used to assess the prostate and surrounding structures and may form part of further investigation when clinically indicated. It is not, by itself, a definitive test for prostate cancer.
What Happens if Abnormalities are Detected?
If any abnormalities are detected, our General Practitioners (GPs) at Alliance Medical Centre will review the results together with your medical history and clinical findings. Where further investigation is required, the doctor may recommend additional tests or refer you to a urologist, a specialist in conditions affecting the urinary and male reproductive systems, for further assessment.
Seeing a GP as the first step is also advisable as part of a general health assessment. A GP can review your overall health and risk factors, identify abnormalities that may require further investigation, and guide you towards the appropriate specialist care when necessary. This allows prostate health concerns to be considered alongside other aspects of your overall health, rather than in isolation.
Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes and increases the chances of successful management.
Act Today and Get Screened
Early detection remains one of the most powerful tools in managing prostate cancer. By staying informed and attending regular check-ups, men can significantly improve health outcomes and maintain quality of life. If you are unsure where to start, book a consult and speak with our doctor to find out more
