PSA Test for Men: Importance of Prostate Cancer Screening in Singapore
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but early detection can save lives. That’s where the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test helps. This simple blood test detects prostate cancer early, often before symptoms appear.
For men in Singapore, regular prostate health screenings are vital, especially with risk factors like age, family history, and lifestyle. Early detection not only improves treatment outcomes but also provides peace of mind.
In this article, we’ll cover the importance of PSA tests, who should get screened, and how men in Singapore can take steps to protect their health. Taking action today could make all the difference.
Why Prostate Health Matters
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men worldwide. Here in Singapore, the risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, family history, and ethnicity. It is often dubbed a “silent” cancer because its symptoms may go unnoticed until it is already at an advanced stage.
The good news? Early detection saves lives. By identifying cancer cells before they spread to other parts of the body, timely treatment can offer patients a significantly higher chance of recovery.
This is where PSA screening comes in. Regular screenings allow us to assess the risk of prostate cancer in otherwise healthy men, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health.
What Is a PSA Test?
The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a simple blood test that measures PSA levels, a protein made by normal and cancerous prostate cells.
How it works:
- A small blood sample is taken from your arm.
- The sample is tested in a lab to check PSA levels.
Higher PSA levels may indicate issues with the prostate, such as prostate cancer, an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), or inflammation (prostatitis).
What PSA Levels Mean:
- Normal levels vary by age.
- Slightly elevated levels may need monitoring or follow-up tests.
- High levels may require further testing, like imaging or a biopsy, to check for cancer.
The PSA test isn’t a definitive diagnostic tool but a helpful first step in assessing prostate health.
Why Prostate Cancer Health Screening Is Critical
Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer among men in Singapore. Studies suggest that the risk of prostate cancer increases significantly after the age of 50, with men of certain ethnicities (such as Chinese and Indian) at a slightly higher risk. In some cases, prostate cancer cells may not need immediate treatment, and careful monitoring might be a better approach depending on the diagnosis.
Benefits of Early Detection
- Timely Treatment: Detecting prostate cancer early improves treatment success rates and reduces the chance of cancer spreading to other parts of the body.
- Improved Quality of Life: Early intervention often means less aggressive treatments and fewer complications for men who have been diagnosed.
- Peace of Mind: Regular screenings, such as a PSA blood test, provide reassurance, especially for individuals with a family history or other risk factors.
Who Should Get a PSA Test?
- Men Aged 50 and Above: Regular screenings are typically recommended for men over 50.
- Men with a Family History: Those with a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer are at higher risk and may need to start screenings earlier, around age 45.
- Men with Elevated Risk Factors: Age, ethnicity, and lifestyle habits can contribute to an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.
If you’re unsure whether you need a PSA test, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your risk factors and individual needs.
Where To Get PSA Screening for Prostate Cancer in Singapore?
You can get PSA screening for prostate cancer at Mediway Medical. They provide accurate results and comprehensive care in a supportive environment.
PSA Test in Our Health Screening Packages
At Mediway Medical, the PSA test (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is included in our men’s health screening packages to help detect prostate cancer early. Choose from:
- Premium Package – $300
- Prestige Package – $550
(Prices listed are accurate as of July 15, 2025, and are subject to change without prior notice.)
Both packages are designed to meet your healthcare needs with high-quality screening and expert care. Contact our team to find the right package for you.
Understanding Test Results
Receiving abnormal PSA results can be worrying, but it doesn’t always indicate cancer. Instead, it signals the need for further evaluation, which may include:
- Prostate Biopsy: A sample of prostate tissue is examined to confirm or rule out cancer.
- Imaging Tests: MRI or ultrasound scans may be conducted to look for abnormalities.
Only your doctor can interpret the results in the context of your overall health and recommend the next steps.
Prostate Cancer Prevention Tips
Prevention is better than cure, and while we cannot eliminate all risks, we can adopt healthy lifestyle practices to support the prostate gland’s health. For those with a family history of prostate cancer, these practices are even more critical to consider.
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in antioxidants, such as tomatoes, broccoli, and green tea, which may help in the early stage of maintaining prostate health.
- Exercise Regularly: Staying active can improve overall health and reduce cancer risk, even if the cancer has spread.
- Limit Processed Foods and Red Meat: These have been linked to an increased risk of prostate and other cancers.
- Avoid Smoking and reduce alcohol intake.
A healthy lifestyle can go a long way in reducing the risk of prostate cancer and other health conditions.
Take Charge of Your Health
We’ve seen how critical early detection is in managing the risk of prostate cancer. Regular PSA testing is a simple, effective, and accessible way for men in Singapore to protect the health of their prostate gland.
Don’t wait. Schedule your next PSA test at Mediway Medical or speak to a healthcare professional about your risks. Together, we can safeguard your prostate gland health for a brighter, healthier future.
