Dr Michael Wong is a USA-fellowship trained senior urologist with an exceptional international standing, having received some of the highest recognitions across three continents.
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One-stop diagnosis and treatment centre of excellence for your urological, fertility or gynaecological problems
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting men in Singapore, usually occurring in those aged 50 and above. In the five years between 2017 and 2021, almost 7,000 cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in Singapore. It is usually slow-growing and often does not cause symptoms in the early stages.
Medically reviewed by Dr Michael Wong, Medical Director & Senior Consultant Urologist
FAMS (Urology),FICS (USA),FRCS (Edinburgh),M Med (Surgery),MBBS (S’pore)
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate, a small gland in men that produces seminal fluid. The prostate is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. This disease typically grows slowly and may initially be confined to the prostate gland, where it might not cause serious harm nor any symptoms. However, some types are more aggressive and can spread quickly.
Who Is at Risk of Prostate Cancer?
Understanding the risk factors for prostate cancer is crucial for early detection and prevention. Below are some key factors that can increase a man's likelihood of developing this disease:
Age
Risk goes up significantly after 50, and is most common in men over 65.
Family History
Having a close relative with prostate cancer doubles your risk.
Genetic Mutations
BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Ethnic Background
In Singapore, Chinese men are much more likely to develop prostate cancer than other ethnicities.
Dietary Factors
A diet high in red meat and high-fat dairy might increase the risk.
Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyles and obesity have been associated with a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the disease. Generally, early-stage prostate cancer does not cause noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses, various signs and symptoms can develop:
Frequent urination, especially at night
Weak urinary stream
Blood in urine or semen
Pain and discomfort in the lower back or hip area
Burning or pain during urination
Erectile dysfunction
Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
Difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels
Even though there is generally no routine prostate cancer screening test, men with symptoms or a family history of the disease should still get seen by a doctor.
Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes for prostate cancer. Connect with our urologist, Dr Michael Wong, for a comprehensive diagnosis today.
Diagnosing prostate cancer involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and various tests, including the following:
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
This blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer, though they can also be caused by other conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis.
Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)
During a DRE, a doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate for any irregularities or lumps. This exam can help detect abnormalities that may not elevate PSA levels.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans may be used to visualise the prostate and surrounding tissues. These tests help determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread beyond the prostate.
Prostate Biopsy
A biopsy is typically recommended if PSA levels are high or a DRE reveals abnormalities. This involves removing small prostate tissue samples with a needle, which are then examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
What Are the Stages of Prostate Cancer?
Understanding the prostate cancer stages is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan and predicting outcomes. The stages range from I to IV, indicating the progression and spread of the disease.
Stage I
At this initial stage, the cancer is slow-growing and confined to one side of the prostate.
Stage II
In this stage, the cancer grows within one or both sides of the prostate but remains confined within the gland.
Stage III
The cancer has extended beyond the prostate into nearby tissues or seminal vesicles but has not spread to distant parts of the body.
Stage IV
The cancer has metastasised, spreading to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, or lungs.
What Are the Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer treatment options vary based on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, as well as the patient's age, overall health, and medical history. Here are the primary treatment options for prostate cancer:
Active Surveillance
This involves monitoring the cancer without immediate treatment. Active surveillance may be recommended for certain low-risk, slow-growing prostate cancers via regular PSA tests, DREs, and biopsies.
Radical Prostatectomy
This refers to the surgical removal of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues, typically used to treat localised prostate cancer.
This is a type of minimally invasive surgery using robotic assistance for prostate removal, offering enhanced precision.
Robotic Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy
This minimally invasive approach safely removes the prostate gland while preserving the nerve structures crucial for maintaining penile erections.
Radiotherapy Treatment
This uses high-energy radiation to destroy prostate cancer cells. Radiation can be delivered externally from a machine outside the body, or internally.
Hormonal Therapy
This treatment aims to reduce male hormones and control cancer growth. Hormonal therapy in this case is also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).
Chemotherapy
This uses anti-cancer drugs to kill rapidly growing cells. Chemotherapy is reserved for advanced or metastatic prostate cancer unresponsive to other treatments.
If you or a loved one are concerned about prostate cancer or wish to discuss preventative measures, do not hesitate to consult with our specialist.
Consult with our urologist today to receive personalised prostate cancer screening in Singapore and make informed decisions about your health.
Prostate cancer is often curable when detected early. Localised prostate cancer generally has a high success rate with treatments like surgery or radiotherapy.
Can I check myself for prostate cancer at home?
Self-checks for prostate cancer are not reliable. Consult with a urologist for a proper evaluation.
How often should I get a prostate exam?
Men should discuss the timing of prostate exams with their doctor, generally starting at age 50 for those at average risk. Men with higher risk factors, such as family history, may need to begin screenings earlier and more often, depending on their doctor’s recommendation.
Will prostate cancer treatment cause side effects?
This will depend on the type of prostate cancer treatment, whether it is surgery, hormone therapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and so on. Generally speaking, there will be some side effects, ranging from urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction to nausea, diarrhoea and fatigue. Your doctor will work closely with you to manage these side effects as far as possible.
Let us help you
Restore your urological health.
Make an appointment with Dr Michael Wong to receive a tailored, supportive and targeted care plan.
Office Location
3 Mount Elizabeth Road, #10-09, Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
