Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, particularly those above the age of 50. It develops when abnormal cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably. In the early stages, prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, advanced prostate cancer can affect urination, bladder control, and overall health.
According to the Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017–2021, prostate cancer is the third most common cancer among men in Malaysia. The risk increases with age, particularly after 50 years old, with the highest incidence reported among men aged 70 to 74.
Because early prostate cancer often develops without obvious symptoms, many cases in Malaysia are diagnosed at more advanced stages. Early screening and medical evaluation may help detect prostate cancer sooner and improve treatment outcomes.
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably. The prostate is a small gland found only in males and is responsible for producing part of the fluid that makes up semen.
Most prostate cancers develop slowly over time. However, some forms can be more aggressive and may spread to other parts of the body, including the bones and lymph nodes.
Prostate cancer develops when changes occur in the DNA of normal prostate cells, causing them to grow and multiply abnormally. While the exact cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood, several factors may increase the risk of developing the disease.
The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, especially in men above 50 years old.
Having a close male relative diagnosed with prostate cancer before 60 increases your risk, and having a female relative with breast cancer might also raise your susceptibility to prostate cancer.
Some studies suggest that obesity may be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
Researchers are also studying the role of hormonal imbalance, metabolic health, and chronic inflammation in the development of prostate cancer.
Research continues to examine the relationship between diet and prostate cancer. Some evidence suggests that diets high in calcium may be associated with an increased risk.
Early prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the cancer grows, symptoms may develop, particularly those affecting urination and bladder function.
Common symptoms of prostate cancer may include:
Frequent urination, especially at night
Sudden urgency to urinate
Difficulty starting urination
Weak urine flow
Straining or prolonged urination
A sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
Blood in the urine or semen
These symptoms may also occur in other prostate conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Signs of advanced or metastatic prostate cancer may include:
Bone pain or back pain
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Testicular discomfort or pain
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly occurs with ageing. Prostate cancer, on the other hand, occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably.
Although BPH and prostate cancer can cause similar urinary symptoms, they are different conditions and require proper medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis.
You should seek medical evaluation if you experience persistent urinary symptoms, blood in the urine or semen, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing bone pain.
Seek medical attention if you experience:
Difficulty urinating
Weak urine flow
Frequent urination, especially at night
Blood in the urine or semen
Persistent pelvic or bone pain
Unexplained weight loss
Early detection of prostate cancer may improve treatment outcomes and increase the range of available treatment options.
Prostate cancer is commonly diagnosed through a combination of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood testing, digital rectal examination (DRE), imaging studies, and prostate biopsy.
A prostate biopsy is usually required to confirm the diagnosis and determine how aggressive the cancer may be.
Men above the age of 50, especially those with a family history of prostate cancer, should discuss prostate cancer screening with a doctor. Earlier screening may be recommended for individuals with additional risk factors.
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Prostate cancer treatment depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, how aggressive it is, overall health, and individual patient needs.
Treatment options for prostate cancer may include:
Observation or active surveillance
Surgery
External beam radiation therapy (EBRT)
Cryotherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and other ablative treatments
Hormone therapy
Targeted drug therapy
Bone-related treatments for advanced disease
After diagnosis, your oncology doctor will discuss the most appropriate treatment options, including the potential benefits, risks, and side effects of each approach.
Robotic-assisted prostatectomy is a minimally invasive surgical option for selected patients with prostate cancer. The procedure allows surgeons to remove the prostate with enhanced precision while minimising damage to surrounding tissues.
At Prince Court Medical Centre, robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy is performed using the fourth-generation da Vinci Xi Surgical System. This advanced robotic platform provides enhanced visualisation, precision, and surgical control.
Compared to traditional open surgery, robotic-assisted surgery may offer:
Smaller incisions
Less blood loss
Shorter hospital stay
Faster recovery
Lower risk of complications such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction in selected patients
Prostate cancer cannot be completely prevented. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Steps that may help support prostate health include:
Maintaining a healthy weight.
Staying physically active.
Following a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive red meat intake.
Discussing calcium intake and dietary supplements with a doctor where appropriate.
Because some risk factors such as age, ethnicity, and family history cannot be controlled, regular screening and medical evaluation remain important.
Men above the age of 50, particularly those with a family history of prostate cancer, are encouraged to discuss prostate cancer screening with a doctor.
At Prince Court Medical Centre, our multidisciplinary cancer team provides personalised prostate cancer care, including advanced diagnostics, robotic-assisted surgery, and systemic treatment options.
Schedule a consultation today for a personalised prostate health assessment and treatment planning.
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