Prostate Cancer Treatment in Singapore
Prostate cancer is the #1 cancer incident in Singapore males, with 4 new cases diagnosed every day. It affects men particularly over the age of 50 and is often slowly growing and may not cause symptoms in the early stages. Some prostate cancers remain confined to the gland and are slow-growing, while others can spread and become more aggressive. Early diagnosis allows for a wider range of effective treatment options and better outcomes.
Medically reviewed by Dr Ho Siew Hong
Senior Consultant Urologist
MBBS (NUS), FRCS (Edinburgh, Glasgow), FAMS (Urology), Singapore Board Certified Urologist
What Is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the prostate gland — a small organ located below the bladder in men. It can remain localised or spread to nearby tissues such as the seminal vesicles, bladder, or distant organs like the bones and lymph nodes.
The most common type is adenocarcinoma. Prostate cancer is often detected through a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test or digital rectal examination (DRE) before symptoms develop.
Common Symptoms
Many men with early-stage prostate cancer have no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:
Stages of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is categorised into stages based on how far the cancer has grown within the prostate and whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Staging helps guide treatment planning and predict outcomes.
If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer or an abnormal PSA finding, understanding the stage of your condition helps plan the most effective treatment with the best possible outcomes.
Prostate cancer is most treatable when detected early. Don’t wait—get screened and take the first step toward better health.
How Prostate Cancer Is Diagnosed
Our clinic provides a one-stop evaluation process for prostate cancer. Common investigations include:
Treatment Options & Surgical Procedures
Treatment is based on cancer stage, grade, age, and patient preferences. Dr Ho provides a full range of options, integrating advanced technology with a patient-centred approach.
- For low-risk, localised prostate cancer.
- Regular PSA monitoring with MRI scans or repeat biopsies.
- Minimally invasive surgery to remove the prostate gland.
- Performed via small keyhole incisions using robotic assistance for precision.
- Offers smaller incisions, less bleeding, and faster recovery.
- Aims to preserve urinary continence and sexual function whenever possible.
- Combines MRI imaging with real-time ultrasound for precise tissue targeting
- Increases detection accuracy for clinically significant cancers
- May be performed under local anaesthesia or sedation
- External Beam Radiation or Proton Therapy or Brachytherapy (internal radioactive seeds).
- May be used as a primary treatment or after surgery if cancer cells remain.
- Often combined with hormone therapy for improved outcomes.
- Reduces testosterone to slow cancer growth.
- Commonly used for advanced or recurrent prostate cancer.
- Used for metastatic or treatment-resistant prostate cancer.
- Targets rapidly growing cancer cells or stimulates the immune system.
- Treatment is coordinated with a medical oncologist.
- Minimally invasive options such as High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) or Cryotherapy.
- Suitable for selected low-volume tumours to preserve surrounding healthy tissue.
Post-Treatment Care
Potential Risks
Speak to Dr. Ho Siew Hong Today
If you have symptoms, risk factors, or an abnormal PSA result, don’t delay a specialist review. Early detection allows for more treatment options and better outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. PSA may rise due to benign enlargement or infection. Further tests are required.
Yes. When detected early, localised prostate cancer can be effectively treated with surgery or radiation.
Some men experience temporary incontinence or erectile issues, but many recover with therapy and time.
Men over 50 (or over 40 with a family history of prostate cancer) should discuss annual PSA testing with their doctor.
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