Prostate Cancer in Singapore: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Awareness

Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer among men, with its prevalence rising in many parts of the world, including Singapore. This type of cancer affects the prostate, a small gland in the male reproductive system. It plays a significant role in producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and carries sperm. To learn more about early detection methods and treatment options, click here for detailed information. Understanding its risk factors, early detection methods, and treatment options is crucial for better outcomes.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer originates in the prostate gland. It occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably. This growth can form a tumour that may spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. In its early stages, the disease can be asymptomatic, making it vital to be aware of potential warning signs.

Prostate Cancer in Singapore

In Singapore, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men, following colorectal cancer. The condition is most frequently diagnosed in men aged 50 and older, though younger men can also be affected, particularly if they have a family history of prostate cancer. Over the years, the incidence of prostate cancer in Singapore has been increasing, largely due to improvements in diagnostic methods and greater awareness, along with lifestyle and dietary changes. As life expectancy increases, more men are reaching an age where they are more likely to develop the condition.

Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

While the precise cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood, several factors can raise the likelihood of its development:

• Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases significantly after the age of 50.
• Family History: Men with a close relative (father, brother, son) who has had prostate cancer are at higher risk. This risk escalates if multiple family members have been affected.
• Ethnicity: Prostate cancer is more common in African-American men than in men of Asian descent. In Singapore, however, the incidence among Asian men is rising, potentially due to dietary and lifestyle changes.
• Diet and Lifestyle: Diets rich in red meat and dairy products, but low in fruits and vegetables, can contribute to higher prostate cancer risk. Lack of exercise and obesity are additional lifestyle factors that may increase susceptibility.
• Genetics: Inherited genetic mutations, such as those in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer often does not present symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, the following signs may develop:

• Difficulty in urinating or a weak urine flow
• Frequent urination, particularly at night
• Pain or a burning sensation during urination
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Painful ejaculation
• Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
• Unexplained weight loss and fatigue in advanced stages

While these symptoms can also be linked to non-cancerous conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), it is important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosing Prostate Cancer

Diagnosing prostate cancer typically involves a combination of a medical history review, physical examination, and tests. These may include:

• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): The doctor may perform a DRE, where a gloved finger is inserted into the rectum to feel for abnormalities in the prostate.
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: PSA is a protein produced by the prostate and elevated levels in the blood can indicate prostate cancer. However, high PSA levels can also result from conditions like BPH or prostatitis.
• Biopsy: If results from the DRE or PSA test are concerning, a biopsy may be necessary. This involves removing small tissue samples from the prostate to check for cancerous cells.
• Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging methods like ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans are used to assess the tumor’s size and spread.

Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer

Treatment for prostate cancer depends on the cancer’s stage, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. Some of the available treatment options include:

• Active Surveillance: For low-risk, slow-growing cancer, doctors may suggest monitoring the condition without immediate intervention. This approach is often suitable for older men or those with small, localized tumours
• Surgery: The most common surgical treatment is a prostatectomy, where the prostate is removed. This can be done using traditional surgery or minimally invasive techniques, such as robotic-assisted surgery.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often used to treat localized cancer or shrink tumours before surgery.
• Hormone Therapy: Prostate cancer cells often rely on male hormones like testosterone to grow. Hormone therapy works by lowering or blocking these hormones to slow the cancer’s progression.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be necessary for advanced prostate cancer that has spread to other areas of the body. It involves using drugs to destroy rapidly dividing cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the immune system identify and destroy cancer cells. It may be used in advanced cases of prostate cancer.
• Cryotherapy and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU): These are newer treatments for localized prostate cancer. Cryotherapy involves freezing the cancerous cells, while HIFU uses ultrasound waves to destroy the tumour.

Coping with Prostate Cancer

For many men, the prognosis of prostate cancer is positive, particularly when diagnosed early. However, living with prostate cancer can bring challenges, including coping with the side effects of treatment, emotional distress, and adjusting to lifestyle changes. Support from healthcare professionals, family, and cancer support groups can greatly enhance the quality of life during and after treatment. Counselling can help manage the psychological impact of the disease.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer poses a significant health challenge in Singapore, but advances in diagnosis and treatment have improved outcomes for many men. Regular screenings, particularly for those at higher risk, are fundamental in detecting the condition early. By recognizing the symptoms, understanding the risk factors, and seeking prompt medical attention, men can increase their chances of successful treatment. Prostate cancer awareness plays an essential role in ensuring that individuals are well-informed and prepared to address the condition with the necessary medical and emotional support.