Prostate Cancer in Thailand: A Common Men's Cancer That Often Goes Undetected

Many men don't think about their prostate health until symptoms begin to interfere with their daily lives. Unfortunately, by then, the disease may already have progressed.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among Thai men, ranking as the fourth most common cancer in males. According to Thailand's National Cancer Registry, approximately 3,700 new cases are diagnosed each year, with an incidence rate of 7.7 cases per 100,000 men. The Ministry of Public Health also reports around 1,700 deaths annually from prostate cancer.

Who is at Risk?

While the exact cause of prostate cancer remains unknown, several factors can increase the risk, including:

• Men aged 50 years and older

• Having a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer

• Increasing age

Because prostate cancer often develops slowly, many men experience no symptoms during the early stages, making regular health screening especially important.

Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

As the cancer grows, it may press against the urethra and lead to urinary symptoms such as:

• Difficulty starting urination

• Weak or interrupted urine stream

• Frequent urination, especially at night

• Pain or discomfort while urinating

• Feeling unable to empty the bladder completely

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by an enlarged prostate or other non-cancerous conditions. However, they should never be ignored and should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Early Detection Can Make a Difference

When prostate cancer is detected early, treatment is often more effective and the chances of a successful recovery are significantly higher.

Doctors may recommend one or more screening methods depending on your age, symptoms, and risk factors, including:

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test

• Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) performed by a physician when clinically appropriate

If screening results suggest an increased risk, your doctor can recommend the appropriate next steps for further evaluation.

Don't Wait Until Symptoms Appear

Many men postpone discussing urinary or prostate concerns because they feel embarrassed or assume the symptoms are simply part of ageing. However, early conversations and timely screening can make a meaningful difference.

If you are 50 years or older, have a family history of prostate cancer, or have noticed changes in your urinary habits, consider speaking with a doctor.

At Doctor Anywhere, our healthcare professionals can assess your individual risk, discuss whether prostate cancer screening is appropriate for you, and recommend the most suitable health screening plan based on your age, medical history, and symptoms.

Your health is worth prioritising. Ready to take the first step? Book your online consult with our doctor here.

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