Prostate Cancer Screening Singapore: Various Tests (2024)

Prostate Cancer Screening in Singapore

Dr. Leonard Leng of ATA Medical Singapore.
Authored By: Dr. Leonard Leng.
Last updated: 11 Nov 2024.

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped organ in the male reproductive system responsible for producing seminal fluid. Cancer develops when cells in the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably due to mutations in their DNA. These abnormal cells can form a tumour, which in some cases may spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes and bones. While many prostate cancers grow slowly and remain localised, more aggressive forms can spread rapidly and lead to serious complications.

Asian man holding a blue ribbon in support of prostate cancer awareness and early detection for timely intervention.

Prostate Cancer in Singapore

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in Singapore. Between 2017 and 2021, there were 6,912 cases diagnosed locally, accounting for 16.8% of all male cancer cases. Early detection through screening is critical for timely intervention and effective management of the disease, helping to prevent progression to advanced stages and improving treatment outcomes.

Prostate cancer was the most common cancer among men in Singapore between 2017 and 2021.
Source: Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021

Signs & Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer progresses through various stages, and symptoms may develop as follows:

Stages Cancer Progression Symptoms
Localised Prostate Cancer (T1) Tumour is confined to the prostate and too small to be detected by physical exams or imaging. Usually asymptomatic.
Localised Prostate Cancer (T2) Cancer is still within the prostate but large enough to be detected by a physical exam or elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels. May include difficulty or pain while urinating, weak or interrupted urine stream, blood in urine or semen, and discomfort in the pelvic area. Erectile dysfunction may also occur.
Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer (T3) Cancer has spread beyond the prostate's outer layer, possibly invading nearby tissues like the seminal vesicles. Severe urinary problems, pelvic discomfort, bone or back pain, difficulty controlling bladder/bowel functions, fatigue, weight loss, leg weakness.
Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer (T4) Cancer has spread to nearby organs such as the bladder, rectum, or pelvic wall. Similar symptoms as T3, with increased severity and potential loss of bladder/bowel control.
Metastatic Prostate Cancer (M1) Cancer has spread to distant organs like bones, lymph nodes, or other parts of the body. Persistent bone pain, weight loss, fatigue, weakness, and loss of bladder/bowel control.

Causes & Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

The exact causes of prostate cancer are still not fully understood, but several risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of developing the disease:

  • Family History: A strong family history of prostate cancer raises the risk.
  • Age: Prostate cancer predominantly affects older men above 50, with the risk increasing significantly after 70 years.
  • Ethnicity: Locally, Chinese men are at significantly higher risk of getting prostate cancer compared to Malay or Indian men.
  • Diet: A diet high in red meat, dairy products, and animal fats has been linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer. A lack of fruits and vegetables may also increase susceptibility.
Singaporean men who are Chinese and have a family history of prostate cancer are at high risk of developing the disease.

What Is Prostate Cancer Screening?

Screening for prostate cancer aims to detect the disease at an early stage when treatment outcomes may be more favourable. The most commonly recommended screening test is the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test, which measures the level of PSA – a protein produced by both normal and cancerous prostate cells. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, but they can also suggest other non-cancerous conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or inflammation of the prostate.

If PSA levels are elevated, further diagnostic tests such as a digital rectal examination (DRE), prostate ultrasound, prostate biopsy, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), or Computed Tomography (CT) scan may be performed to confirm the initial screening results and determine the extent of the disease.

Male patient’s blood sample sent to a laboratory for analysis of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels to detect prostate cancer.

How Often Should You Screen for Prostate Cancer?

In Singapore, there are no specific guidelines for routine prostate cancer screening. However, men aged 50 and above are encouraged to consider screening. Those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history of prostate or breast cancer, may benefit from starting screenings earlier and should consult with their doctors to determine the best approach.

Cost of Prostate Cancer Screenings

At ATA Medical, we offer screenings for prostate cancer, along with health screening packages that include some of these tests. The prices are as follows:

Test / Package Price*
Prostate Cancer Screenings
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood Test $38.15
Ultrasound Prostate $174.40
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan Please enquire
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan Please enquire
Health Screening Packages with Prostate Cancer Screenings
Noble – PSA Test $226
Pre-marital (Male) - PSA Test $291
Silver – PSA Test $368
Crown – PSA Test $381
Crown Plus – PSA Test $485
Royal – PSA Test, Ultrasound Prostate $667
Jewel – PSA Test, Ultrasound Prostate $1415
Marvel – PSA Test, Ultrasound Prostate $2289
Prestige – PSA Test, Ultrasound Prostate, Liquid Biopsy $5250
Imperial – PSA Test, Ultrasound Prostate, Liquid Biopsy $5850
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

For added convenience, we also offer home health screenings and blood tests at your preferred location. Please enquire with us for more information.

Where to Go for Prostate Cancer Screening in Singapore

ATA Medical is conveniently located at:

How Do I Book a Prostate Cancer Screening Appointment?

ATA Medical @ Orchard

Address: 1 Orchard Blvd, #05-09 Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard Station (TE13)
Contact Number: 6322 7331
Email: camden@atamed.sg
Opening Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Sat: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Sun & PH: Closed
Please note that our last appointment is at 5:15 PM from Monday to Friday and at 12:15 PM on Saturday. Thank you for your understanding.
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ATA Medical @ Tanjong Pagar

Address: 72 Anson Rd, #01-02 Anson House, Singapore 079911
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar Station (EW15)
Contact Number: 6223 0682
Email: hi@atamed.sg
Opening Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Sat: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Sun & PH: Closed
Please note that our last appointment is at 5:15 PM from Monday to Friday and at 12:15 PM on Saturday. Thank you for your understanding.
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Book Now
WhatsApp Us

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ATA Medical (Anson House)

Nearest MRT: EW15 Tanjong Pagar

ATA Medical (Camden Medical Centre)

Nearest MRT: TE13 Orchard Boulevard

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The cost of prostate cancer screening in Singapore depends on the type of test. At ATA Medical, a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test costs $38.15 NETT, while an ultrasound prostate test costs $174.40 NETT. For Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans, please contact us for more information.
Prostate cancer is typically tested through several methods. Early screening typically includes a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). Additionally, a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) may be used to create images of the prostate and guide biopsies if needed.
In Singapore, men are generally advised to begin prostate cancer screening at the age of 50. However, those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history of prostate or breast cancer, may consider starting screening earlier.
Prostate cancer predominantly affects older men, with the majority of cases diagnosed in men over the age of 50. The risk increases significantly after age 70.
Yes, prostate cancer screening is considered valuable because it helps detect the disease at an early, treatable stage. Early detection can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the likelihood of the cancer advancing to more severe stages.
Prostate screenings are generally not free in Singapore. At ATA Medical, a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test is priced at $38.15 NETT, and an ultrasound prostate test costs $174.40 NETT. For Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scan pricing, please contact us directly for details.
Yes, a General Practitioner (GP) can perform initial prostate cancer screening. At ATA Medical, a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is $38.15 NETT, while an ultrasound prostate test is $174.40 NETT. For MRI and CT scan pricing, please contact us for further details.
No, self-examination for prostate cancer is not possible. The diagnosis requires medical tests, such as a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), or imaging studies such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scans, which need to be conducted by a doctor or specialists.
Prostate tests such as the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test are not painful. A Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) might cause mild discomfort, while a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) may also result in some discomfort but is generally well tolerated by most patients.
No, a prostate examination should be conducted by a trained medical professional using proper medical techniques and equipment.
Men are encouraged to start prostate screening at age 50. Those at higher risk, particularly men with a family history of prostate or breast cancer, may need to start screening earlier, typically at age 45.
Prostate cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do develop, they may include difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, pelvic discomfort, or blood in the urine. Regular screening is essential for early detection.
The survival rate for prostate cancer in Singapore is high, particularly when it is detected early. Over 90% of men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer survive for five years or more.
The first stage of prostate cancer is known as T1 or localised prostate cancer. At this stage, the tumour is confined to the prostate and is usually too small to be detected through physical exams or imaging, often presenting no symptoms.