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Prostate Cancer in Singapore — Assessment, Treatment, and Care

Dr. Nor Azhari Bin Mohd Zam

Dr. Nor Azhari Bin Mohd Zam

Senior Consultant Urologist

MBBS (NUS)MRCS (Edin.)MMed Surgery (NUS)FAMS (Urology)

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in Singapore. Whether you are experiencing symptoms, have received an abnormal PSA result, or are seeking a screening assessment, an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward understanding your condition and your options.

  • Same-day appointments available
  • Former Director of Endourology (Urinary stone service) Singapore General Hospital 2016 to 2023
  • Medisave & insurance claimable — check your eligibility
  • Comprehensive diagnostic assessment including PSA testing and imaging
  • 20 years of experience in urological cancer diagnosis and management

Book A Prostate Cancer Assessment

Our clinic team will reach out within 24 hours to confirm your appointment. All enquiries are strictly confidential.

    Why Patients Choose Dr Azhari for Prostate Cancer Treatments

    Former Director of Endourology at SGH

    Dr Azhari served as Director of Endourology at Singapore General Hospital from 2016 to 2023 — overseeing the urinary stone service at one of Singapore’s largest public hospitals.

    20 Years of Specialist Experience

    With two decades of experience treating kidney, bladder, prostate, and male reproductive conditions, patients can be confident they are being seen by a specialist with the breadth of experience to handle complex cases.

    Medisave and Insurance Claimable

    Many urology procedures can be offset with Medisave or covered by insurance. The clinic provides clear guidance on claims so patients understand their options before treatment begins.

    Discreet and Comfortable Environment

    Sensitive issues are addressed in a private, respectful, and judgment-free setting — so patients feel at ease discussing symptoms they may have been reluctant to raise with anyone else

    Do You Have These Warning Signs?

    Prostate cancer in its early stages may not cause obvious symptoms. As the condition progresses, the following signs may develop:

    Early Stage Symptoms

    • Difficulty starting or stopping urination
    • A weak or interrupted urine stream
    • Frequent urination, particularly at night
    • A feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied
    • Blood in the urine or semen

    Advanced Stage Symptoms

    • Bone pain, particularly in the back, hips, or pelvis
    • Unexplained weight loss
    • Fatigue that does not improve with rest
    • Difficulty controlling urination
    • Painful ejaculation

    Many of these symptoms can have causes other than prostate cancer. A proper clinical assessment is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about your prostate health, a specialist assessment is advisable.

    When to See a Doctor

    You should seek prompt medical evaluation if you experience:

    • Persistent urinary difficulties lasting more than a few days
    • Blood in your urine or semen
    • Unexplained bone pain in your back or hips
    • Unexplained weight loss combined with urinary symptoms

    Even without symptoms, men should discuss prostate cancer screening starting at age 50. If you have a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors, consider beginning this conversation earlier, around age 40 to 45.

    Dr. Nor Azhari Bin Mohd Zam

    Dr. Nor Azhari Bin Mohd Zam

    MBBS (NUS)|MRCS (Edin.)|MMed Surgery (NUS)|FAMS (Urology)

    With more than 15 years experience as a certified Urologist, Dr Nor Azhari specializes in treating a wide range of kidney, bladder and prostate conditions as well as disorders of the male reproductive organs.

    He offers minimally invasive treatment options and provides same-day appointments for convenience.

    • Skilled urologist and kidney stone surgeon.
    • Director of Endourology (Urinary stone service) at Singapore General Hospital – 2016 to 2023.
    • Recognized with the College of Surgeons Gold Medal and Singapore Urological Association Book prize.
    • Minimally invasive treatment options available (non-invasive and endoscopic/key-hole techniques).

    Know Your Condition. Know Your Options.

    Early assessment means more treatment choices and greater clarity on your condition. Our team will confirm your appointment within 24 hours. All enquiries are strictly confidential.

    Book An Assessment
    5 stars (25+ Google Reviews)

    What to Expect at Your First Visit

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    Step 1 — Symptom and Medical History Review

    Dr Azhari will listen to your symptoms and go through your full medical history, including any family history of prostate cancer, previous PSA results, and any urinary or sexual health changes you have noticed.

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    Step 2 — Physical Examination

    A physical examination will be conducted, which may include a digital rectal examination (DRE) to assess the prostate gland for any irregularities.

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    Step 3 — Diagnostic Testing

    Depending on your presentation, testing may include a PSA blood test, urine tests, and imaging such as a multiparametric MRI (mpMRI). If further investigation is required, a prostate biopsy may be recommended to confirm or rule out cancer.

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    Step 4 — Understanding Your Results

    Dr. Azhari will explain what the findings mean in clear terms — including your PSA level, any imaging findings, and if applicable, your Gleason score — so you have a clear understanding of your condition before any decisions are made.

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    Step 5 — Treatment Discussion and Next Steps

    If prostate cancer is confirmed, Dr. Azhari will walk you through the treatment options appropriate for your specific case, taking into account the stage and grade of the cancer, your overall health, and your personal preferences.

    How Prostate Cancer Is Diagnosed

    An accurate diagnosis involves several steps. Each provides important information about whether cancer is present and how it should be managed.

    Prostate Cancer-Diagnosis-PSA Blood Test

    PSA Blood Test

    The PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in your blood. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, though they can also result from non-cancerous conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. Your doctor will interpret your PSA result in the context of your age and overall health.

    Prostate Cancer-Diagnosis-Digital Rectal Examination

    Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

    A brief physical examination in which the doctor feels the prostate gland through the rectum to check for lumps, hard areas, or irregularities that may suggest cancer.

    Prostate Cancer-Diagnosis-Multiparametric MRI

    Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI)

    MRI imaging produces detailed images of the prostate and can help identify suspicious areas before a biopsy is performed. It can also help determine whether cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland.

    Prostate Cancer-Diagnosis-Prostate Biopsy

    Prostate Biopsy

    If PSA levels or imaging findings suggest possible cancer, a biopsy may be recommended. Small tissue samples are taken from the prostate under ultrasound guidance and examined by a pathologist to identify cancer cells.

    Prostate Cancer-Diagnosis-Gleason Score and Staging

    Gleason Score and Staging

    If cancer is confirmed, a Gleason score is assigned based on how the cancer cells appear under a microscope. This score, along with staging tests such as CT scans, bone scans, or PET scans, helps determine how aggressive the cancer is and whether it has spread — which directly informs treatment planning.

    Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer

    Treatment for prostate cancer is individualised. The most appropriate approach depends on the stage and grade of the cancer, your age and overall health, and your personal preferences. Dr Azhari will discuss all suitable options with you and help develop a plan tailored to your specific situation.

    Active Surveillance

    For low-risk, slow-growing prostate cancers, active surveillance involves regular monitoring through PSA tests, imaging, and periodic biopsies — without immediate treatment. This approach avoids or delays the side effects of treatment while keeping the cancer under close observation.

    Surgery — Radical Prostatectomy

    Surgical removal of the prostate gland. This may be considered for patients with localised prostate cancer. Modern surgical techniques aim to minimise impact on surrounding structures. Recovery and outcomes vary depending on individual circumstances.

    Radiation Therapy and Brachytherapy

    Radiation therapy uses targeted energy to destroy cancer cells. Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive seeds directly into the prostate. These approaches may be suitable for certain stages of prostate cancer.

    Hormone Therapy

    Prostate cancer cells rely on male hormones to grow. Hormone therapy reduces the levels of these hormones or blocks their effect, which can slow the growth of cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments.

    Other Approaches

    Depending on your specific case, additional options such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or focal therapy may be discussed. Dr. Azhari will outline which approaches are relevant to your individual diagnosis.

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    Who Is at Higher Risk of Prostate Cancer

    Understanding your risk factors can help inform decisions about screening and early assessment.

    • Age — Risk increases significantly after age 50. Most cases are diagnosed in men over 65.
    • Family History — Having a father or brother with prostate cancer increases your risk.
    • Genetic Factors — Inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or Lynch syndrome-related genes are associated with higher risk.
    • Ethnicity — Risk rates vary across ethnic groups. All men in Singapore, including those of Chinese, Malay, and Indian descent, face a risk of developing prostate cancer.
    • Lifestyle Factors — High consumption of red meat and high-fat dairy, obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle have been associated with increased risk or more aggressive disease.
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    Billing & Insurance

    Corporate & Personal Insurance Plans

    Prostate cancer consultations, diagnostic tests, and many treatment procedures are Medisave-claimable and covered under corporate and personal insurance plans. Our clinic team will explain your coverage options clearly before any treatment begins — with transparent pricing at every step.

    Available to Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents, and Foreigners.

    Please speak to our clinic team to check your specific eligibility.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do I need a referral to book a consultation?

    No referral is required. You may contact the clinic directly to arrange an appointment. If your insurance provider requires a referral for claims processing, our team will advise you on the relevant steps.

    At what age should I start prostate cancer screening?

    For men at average risk, discussions about screening should begin at age 50. If you have a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors, consider starting this conversation at age 40 to 45. Screening is a personal decision best made after discussing the benefits and limitations with your doctor.

    What is the PSA test, and what do the results mean?

    The PSA test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in your blood. Elevated levels may suggest prostate cancer, but can also indicate non-cancerous conditions such as BPH or prostatitis. Your result will be interpreted in the context of your age, symptoms, and medical history.

    Can prostate cancer develop without any symptoms?

    Yes. Early-stage prostate cancer often causes no symptoms at all. This is why screening is important, particularly for men with risk factors. Symptoms typically appear as the condition progresses.

    What happens if prostate cancer is left untreated?

    Untreated prostate cancer can grow and spread to surrounding tissues, the lymph nodes, and bones — causing significant pain, urinary complications, and a decline in overall health. Some prostate cancers grow slowly and may not require immediate treatment, while others are more aggressive. A specialist assessment helps determine the appropriate course of action for your individual case.

    Will treatment affect my sexual function?

    Some prostate cancer treatments can affect sexual function. This depends on the type of treatment, the stage of the cancer, and individual factors. Dr Azhari will discuss the potential side effects of each treatment option with you before any decision is made.

    Can prostate cancer come back after treatment?

    Yes. Recurrence is possible after treatment. Regular follow-up appointments, including PSA monitoring, are an important part of ongoing care. Dr Azhari will advise on the appropriate follow-up schedule for your specific case.

    Is my consultation confidential?

    Yes. All consultations and patient information are kept strictly confidential and are not shared without your consent.

    What should I bring to my first appointment?

    Bring any previous PSA test results or medical reports, a list of current medications, and your insurance card or Medisave details if you intend to make a claim.

    Take the Next Step

    Prostate cancer is most manageable when identified early. Whether you are experiencing symptoms, have received an abnormal PSA result, or are due for a screening assessment, a specialist consultation will give you a clear understanding of your condition and the options available to you.

    For urgent or same-day appointment requests, please call our clinic directly. All enquiries are confidential.

    Book My Consultation
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    For urgent or same day appointment requests, please call our hotline.

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      +65‎ 6334‎ 1486

      Our Clinic Locations

      Asian Healthcare Specialists (Novena)

      Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
      38 Irrawaddy Road
      #08-41 Singapore 329563

      Asian Healthcare Specialists (Alvernia)

      Mount Alvernia Hospital
      820 Thomson Road Medical Centre Block A #05-03 Singapore 574623