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Health Matters > Let's Conquer Cancer > 10 Common Cancers in Singapore > Prostate Cancer > Prostate Cancer

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Prostate Cancer

The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and is found only in men. It surrounds the tube that carries urine out from the bladder (known as the urethra). Prostate cancer develops when the cells in the prostate gland grow too rapidly compared to a normal prostate, forming a malignant or cancerous lump. Most prostate cancers grow slower than other types of cancers. Advanced prostate cancer can spread to the lymph nodes and bones. It is the 5th most common cancer affecting men in Singapore.


Risk Factors
1. A family history of prostate cancer
    Eg. father, brother, uncle
2. Age - above 50 years old
3. Smoking

Signs & Symptoms
1. Straining on urination
2. Weak and interrupted urine flow
3. Incomplete voiding
4. Frequent urination during daytime and at night
5. Blood in the urine
6. Blood in the semen
7. Persistent pain of the lower back

*Early prostate cancer usually does not have any symptoms.

These symptoms may be caused by a number of problems and may not indicate the presence of cancer, but if any of the above symptoms persists or is bothering you, do consult your doctor for advice.

Screening

Consultation

Treatment

Screening for prostate cancer is currently not recommended but for individuals interested in early diagnosis, a simple blood test, Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is available. Please discuss with your doctor.

You can seek consultation at the following institutions:
§National Cancer Centre
§Changi General Hospital
§Singapore GeneralHospital
  (Urology Centre)

 Treatment options for prostate cancer include surgery, ranging from a prostatectomy to transuretheral resection, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and/or hormone therapy.