Men diagnosed with prostate cancer are resistant to surgery because they are afraid of losing their manhood.
This fear is due to a false belief that the prostate is located in their penis or testicle, says Dr Michael Wong, President of the Singapore Urological Association (SUA).
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that surrounds part of the uretha - a tube that transports urine and sperm out of the body.
As men age, their risk of developing prostate cancer - the third most common cancer among Singaporean males - increases. Men whose immediate kin - father, brother or son - have a history of prostate cancer are twice as likely to develop the condition.
The risk is highest in men whose family members were diagnosed before age 65.
However, recent research has shown that the risk of prostate cancer can be reduced with medication.
To further inform the public on early warning signs and available treatment options, two forums on prostate health - in English and Mandarin - will be held during on July 11.
The SUA is also making prostate screenings cheaper and more accessible this month, which is Prostate Awareness Month, for men aged between 50 and 75.
For the first time this year, the screenings will be available at 200 clinics islandwide, instead of being centralised at hospitals.
Those consulting family physicians will pay $50 for the whole package, inclusive of follow-up consultation.
Patients who choose to see a specialist will pay $100 for the same package, down from $150.
Apart from detecting prostate cancer, the tests will also be able to detect prostate enlargement.
Prostate enlargement - the most common problem prostate problem among men aged 50 and above - can cause the loss of bladder function.
Early symptoms include a weak urine stream and the frequent urge to urinate.
However, it is a treatable condition.
Said Dr Wong: "The sooner you consult a doctor, the better off you will be in reclaiming the good quality of life... - and that includes your sex life."
Click here to see the list of participating clinics.
