Taiwan offers free prostate cancer screenings amid rising incidence

Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer among Taiwanese men, with new cases approaching 9,985 in 2023, significantly higher than cervical cancer.

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Prostate cancer ranks third in incidence among Taiwanese men, with new cases in 2023 already approaching 9,985, which is 6.9 times that of cervical cancer.

Tong-Ai Hospital is hosting its eighth annual free public prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening event from August 3 to 7 at its Wuchi campus. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of early detection. Men aged 50 and above, or those aged 40 and above with a family history of prostate cancer, are encouraged to participate. Participants need to bring their national health insurance cards; no registration fee or fasting is required.

Prostate cancer typically affects men over 50. Early-stage patients often exhibit no symptoms, but conditions like enlarged prostate can cause urinary issues such as frequent urination, urgency, and blood in the urine. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to a better prognosis. A 69-year-old patient, Mr. Lin from Kaohsiung, shared his experience of being diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer after experiencing frequent urination. He underwent a state-of-the-art nano-knife surgery, which allowed him to be discharged the next day with no post-operative discomfort.

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Many men in old age often have trouble urinating smoothly.

The hospital emphasizes that prostate cancer is curable if detected early. However, the lack of obvious early symptoms often leads to delayed diagnosis. The free screening event provides a vital opportunity for men to address their health proactively.

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