Prostate Cancer
There are various types of cancers that occur in men and women.
Here are some cancers that specifically affect men.
- Testicular cancer
- Mostly affects men between 20-40 years old
- Symptoms include
- Most common: Painless lump in one of both testes
- Swelling of the testicle
- Pain or ache in the testicle, scrotum or groin
- Penile Cancer
- Rare
- Usually occurs in men who are older
- Symptoms include
- Changes in the skin of the penis such as , ulcer or sores that may be associated with bleeding or discharge
- Lump or swelling on the penis
- Symptoms include
- Prostate Cancer
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- Prostate Cancer 2nd most common cancer among men in Singapore*
* Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2019 - Disease where malignant (cancerous) cells form in the prostate gland
- Symptoms include
- Difficulty urinating
- Low stream of urine
- Frequent urination at night
- Constant need to urine
- Blood in urine and/or semen
- Prostate Cancer 2nd most common cancer among men in Singapore*
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that is found in front of the rectum in males. It produces fluid that protects the sperm and its development is dependent on the male sex hormone, testosterone.
The exact cause of prostate cancer is still unknown; however, it is deemed that environmental factors can affect risk.
How to check if my prostate is normal?
Do you know that men with early Prostate Cancer may not have any symptoms?
Doctors take a thorough history and perform relevant examination and investigations at the first consultation. Requires early radical treatments to prolong survival.
Risk factors for Prostate Cancer include:
- Positive Family history (5-10% are passed down from family members)
- Smoking
- Older age
One should seek medical attention should there be abnormal symptoms or signs. It is recommended that men who are above 50 years of age with a family history of prostate cancer diagnosed below the age of 60 years speak to their doctors for relevant screening Early detection and prompt treatment can improve chances of successful treatment and improve survival rates.