"Movember" (held in November) marks a month-long campaign to raise awareness for men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health.

In Singapore, prostate cancer ranks as the third most common cancer affecting men (according to statistics from the Singapore Cancer Society).

Symptoms of prostate cancer

The most common symptoms of prostate cancer include:

  • Weak or interrupted flow of urine
  • Frequent urination (especially at night)
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Blood in the urine or semen
  • Nagging pain in the back, hips, or pelvis
  • Painful ejaculation
  • Elevated levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA)

“However, the same symptoms may also occur in men with benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH) also known as prostate gland enlargement. Therefore, it is important to seek the advice of your doctor whether additional testing is required when such symptoms arise,” explains Clinical Assistant Professor Jeffrey Tuan, Senior Consultant from the Division of Radiation Oncology at National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), a member of the SingHealth group.

Read more: Enlarged prostate - First signs to look out for and how it is treated

Tips to maintain good prostate health

As a start:

1. Include more green, leafy vegetables in your daily diet.

This is a good first step towards a healthy prostate as leafy vegetables contain important vitamins and antioxidants.

2. Avoid charred meats

Charred meats are associated with a type of chemical (PhIP), which increases the risk of cancer.

Read more: This cancer is rising among the young - both in men and women

3. Get moderate exposure to sunlight.

This ensures adequate Vitamin D, which lowers the risk of cancer.

4. Exercise regularly.

Studies have shown that regular exercise is beneficial for prostate health.

5. Consider prostate cancer screening, if you are above the age of 55.

Consult your doctor regarding the pros and cons of going for screening. Prostate health can easily be determined with a digital rectal exam (DRE) and a simple blood test (prostate specific antigen).

Read more: Top cancer-fighting foods you should add to your diet

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Articles on HealthXchange.sg are meant for informational purposes only and cannot replace professional surgical, medical or health advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Photo courtesy of iStock.