The Hidden Danger of Enlarged Prostate

KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 — For many men, an enlarged prostate can signal early trouble, yet symptoms like difficulty urinating are often brushed off as mere signs of aging. This dismissive attitude can have dire consequences for health.

Prostate Cancer: An Escalating Crisis in Malaysia

Prostate cancer ranks as the third most common cancer among Malaysian men, with incidence rates skyrocketing after age 65. The figures reveal a staggering jump from 31.3 cases per 100,000 for men aged 60-64 to 70.6 per 100,000 for those aged 65-69.

As the population ages, the risk for prostate cancer continues to climb, yet nearly 75% of cases are detected only when the disease is advanced, which drastically limits treatment options and survival rates.

Expert Insights: Detect Early for Improved Outcomes

"Prostate cancer is insidious and often goes unnoticed until it's too late," warns Prof Dr Tan Guan Hee, a consultant in urology. He emphasizes, "When you notice urinary symptoms or an enlarged prostate, that should prompt immediate medical investigation, not indifference."

Dr Tan points out the grim statistics: the five-year survival rate for men diagnosed at Stage 4 is a mere 43.2%. This highlights the peril of late diagnoses.

Addressing the Gaps in Prostate Health Care

Experts identify critical issues in prostate health awareness among Malaysian men, such as delayed recognition of symptoms and a lack of understanding about advanced diagnostic tools. Many men only seek help when the cancer has reached an advanced stage, often due to inadequate imaging technologies that can overlook early signs.

"When men receive an early diagnosis, their chances of survival and quality of life increase significantly," adds Dr Nik Muhd Aslan Abdullah, highlighting the need for men to seek medical advice as soon as symptoms arise.

Innovative Solutions: Theranostics in Prostate Cancer Treatment

One exciting advancement in prostate cancer care is theranostics, which combines targeted imaging with direct therapy. PSMA (Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen) serves as a biomarker that helps to visualize and treat prostate cancer cells.

"With PSMA imaging, we can detect tumors as small as 0.3 cm and assess how far cancer has spread," explains Assoc Prof Dr Tan Teik Hin. This advanced imaging allows for tailored treatment strategies that are significantly more effective, especially for patients whose conventional therapies have failed.

A Call to Action: Shifting the Narrative on Men's Health

As the incidence of prostate cancer continues to rise in Malaysia, it's imperative to move from a reactive to a proactive approach regarding men's health. Breaking the stigma around discussing prostate cancer is crucial.

“Prostate cancer doesn’t have to be a death sentence,” says Mohamed Elwakil, Country President of Novartis Malaysia. “Innovative treatments like PSMA imaging and RLT offer new hope, particularly when utilized early.”

Your Prostate Health is Your Responsibility

An enlarged prostate should not be taken lightly. If you're experiencing urinary symptoms, consult your doctor about screening options. And for those facing advanced prostate cancer, inquire about whether PSMA imaging and RLT are suitable options for you.

Remember, awareness and timely intervention can dramatically improve the quality and length of life for patients battling prostate cancer.