Prostate Cancer: A Silent Threat to Thai Men and the Importance of Early Detection
Prostate cancer has emerged as a significant health concern for Thai men, ranking as the fourth most common cancer in the country. With over 7,000 new cases and more than 3,000 deaths annually, medical experts are urging high-risk groups, notably men aged 50 and above, to prioritize regular screenings. “Found first, seen first, has a chance of being treated and cured first,” emphasizes the critical role of early detection in combating this disease.
On January 24, 2025, Bayer Thai Company Limited hosted a seminar titled “Learned about Prostate Cancer,” featuring insights from Asst. Prof. Dr.Pongwutthi Chai Wichit Checkpoint, a medical oncologist at Siriraj Hospital, and Prof. Dr. Kittinat Kitwikai, a urological surgeon at ramathibodi Hospital. The event highlighted the latest advancements in screening, treatment, and innovative medicines for prostate cancer.
The Global and Local Burden of Prostate Cancer
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Thailand recorded 7,830 new prostate cancer cases in 2022, with an average of 3,829 deaths annually. globally,the numbers are staggering: 1,467,854 new cases and 397,430 deaths each year,making prostate cancer the second most common cancer in men after lung cancer.
understanding Prostate Cancer
The prostate,a small chestnut-shaped organ located beneath the bladder,plays a crucial role in male reproductive health. However, abnormal cell division can lead to cancerous growths. Asst. Prof. Dr. pongwutthi explains, “Testosterone is an significant factor in prostate growth. But if the cells in the prostate are abnormal and do not stop dividing, it will eventually become a cancerous lump.”
Risk factors include age, genetics, race, obesity, and lifestyle habits. Men with a family history of prostate cancer are at higher risk, as are those of European or American descent.
Stages and Symptoms
Prostate cancer progresses through four stages:
- Stage 1: Cancer is confined to the prostate, frequently enough asymptomatic.
- Stage 2: Cancer cells grow but remain within the prostate.
- Stage 3: Cancer spreads to the outer layer of the prostate.
- Stage 4: Cancer metastasizes to other organs, such as bones.
Prof. Dr. Kittinat highlights three early warning signs: abnormal urination,severe pain in the lumbar,pelvic,and thigh areas,and symptoms like fatigue,weight loss,and bone degeneration in advanced stages.
Screening and Diagnosis
Early detection is paramount. Screening methods include a physical examination and a blood test for PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen). “For early-stage patients, ther will be a small lump in the prostate, often without clear symptoms,” says Prof. Dr. Kittinat.
Treatment Options
Treatment varies by stage. Early-stage cancer may involve proactive surveillance, radiotherapy, or surgery, including minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy and robot-assisted procedures. For advanced stages, Asst.Prof. Dr. Pongwutthi emphasizes the use of testosterone suppression (Androgen Deprivation Therapy: ADT) and novel hormonal therapies (NHT). “These new-generation drugs, taken orally, substantially slow disease progression with fewer side effects,” he notes.
Call to Action
Men aged 50 and above should undergo regular screenings. Those with a family history of prostate cancer should start as early as 40-45. Early detection saves lives.
| Key Points on prostate Cancer |
|———————————–|
| Rank in Thailand: 4th most common cancer |
| New Cases Annually: 7,830 |
| Deaths Annually: 3,829 |
| Risk Factors: Age, genetics, race, obesity |
| Early Symptoms: Abnormal urination, severe pain |
| Screening: PSA blood test, physical exam |
| Treatment: Surgery, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy |
Prostate cancer is a silent threat, but with awareness, early detection, and advanced treatments, it can be managed effectively. Don’t wait for symptoms—take action today.