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Prostate cancer is a silent threat that looms over the lives of countless men worldwide. In recent years, awareness about this insidious disease has been growing, thanks in large part to the Movember movement. Movember, an annual event that takes place during the month of November, is not just about growing moustaches for fun; it's a serious campaign dedicated to raising awareness and funds for men's health issues, including prostate cancer.
The infographic below is compiled from our research on prostate cancer as well as insights derived from our latest Dread Disease Survey results.1
For more statistic summaries from the latest Dread Disease Survey, please refer to our market-specific infographics here: Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Early detection is crucial in the effective management of prostate cancer because the disease often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As shown in the infographic, the 5-year survival rate for prostate cancer can increase to more than 80% if detected in its earlier stages. There are two primary types of screening available for prostate cancer, as shown in the table below:
Each screening has unique benefits. The PSA test is highly sensitive and can detect prostate cancer at an early, more treatable stage. The DRE, on the other hand, can detect abnormalities that the PSA test might miss.
Discussions about early screening for prostate cancer have engaged oncology experts for many years. A consensus among pan-Asian oncology experts has emerged, recommending early PSA testing for well-informed men aged 50 and above, as well as men below 45 with a family history of prostate cancer.2 Similarly, the Chinese government strongly advocates for risk-based PSA screening due to the high mortality associated with prostate cancer. In general, a routine blood PSA test would be conducted, with those exhibiting abnormal PSA levels referred for further biopsy or ultrasound tests.
Remaining vigilant and informed about potential prostate cancer symptoms is crucial, regardless of whether prostate screening is recommended. The symptoms of prostate cancer can include:3
Unfortunately, awareness today is still insufficient to minimize the proportion of Stage IV prostate cancer. As shown in the infographic, the highest proportion of prostate cancer is diagnosed at stage IV. In addition, if we look more closely at the population statistics in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore, the stage distribution has moved towards a heavier proportion in stage IV,4 as shown in the chart below.
Surviving prostate cancer is a challenging journey that often starts with the shock of diagnosis. This initial moment can be overwhelming, as the word “cancer” carries a heavy emotional weight. The journey often follows a path of uncertainty, medical decisions, and emotional highs and lows.
The statistics can be intimidating, with approximately 1 in 30 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. However, the survival rates are promising. Notably, the 2021 annual report from the Singapore Cancer Registry revealed that prostate cancer ranks the second highest in survival rates (88.9%) among the ten most frequently occurring cancers in males.5
Navigating the journey of surviving prostate cancer is a critically important subject. Following diagnosis, medical professionals often promptly delve into discussing treatment options and their associated risks. Treatment for prostate cancer encompasses a range of approaches such as surgery, hormone therapy, and radiation, to name a few. Each of these treatment methods may bring potential side effects, and among these, the most common concerns are urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.6 These changes can take a considerable toll on one's self-esteem and personal relationships, as the mental and emotional adjustments can be challenging. Moreover, the journey of enduring treatment and awaiting results can be emotionally draining. The uncertainty of outcomes, combined with the fear of receiving less favorable results than anticipated, creates a demanding cycle for patients facing prostate cancer.
The journey doesn’t stop after treatment and a good PSA level following treatment; it continues with repeated PSA-level tests in the pursuit of demonstrated remission, which can be difficult and emotionally draining. Post-treatment protocols involve enduring a series of tests and medical procedures, often filled with hope and anxiety. The waiting period between tests can feel long, but it's during these moments that patients show remarkable strength, holding onto the belief that remission is possible. It's essential to acknowledge these challenges with empathy and offer support throughout this challenging process. Therefore, talking about mental health among prostate cancer survivors is of utmost importance.
Insurers can play a significant role in supporting prostate cancer patients and survivors through a range of services and benefits. Most insurance products would cover prostate cancer to varying degrees. For instance, medical reimbursement insurance would provide coverage of the cost of treatment, and a critical illness product would pay out a lump sum benefit upon a prostate cancer diagnosis fulfilling the cancer definition as specified in the product. This lump sum benefit from critical illness insurance would be a vital financial safety net during a challenging time.
That said, it is important for consumers to understand their critical illness products’ definition for prostate cancer since it differs by market and products. A summary of various definitions specific to prostate cancer across China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore is shown below.
Beyond offering financial assistance, insurers can deliver a range of services aimed at facilitating their clients' healthcare journeys. Such services may include supportive care offerings like psychological counselling, physical therapy, or palliative care, all designed to enhance the overall well-being of patients and survivors. Some insurers go the extra mile to offer cancer survivorship programs designed to support individuals after treatment.
At Gen Re, we are committed to innovation and providing holistic solutions to empower our clients in crafting impactful products for their customers. That's why we believe that critical illness products coupled with mental health monitoring care hold significant importance in the market. Reach out to our representatives for a discussion on these valuable offerings.
We hope to raise awareness about and provide valuable insights into the world of prostate cancer. Early detection, as highlighted, is the cornerstone of effective management. However, taking action goes beyond personal health; it means encouraging regular monitoring of symptoms, supporting loved ones in their healthcare journeys, and advocating for prostate cancer awareness in our communities, especially during the Movember campaign.
Simple acts of kindness towards those who are facing cancer can mean the world to them and make a substantial difference in their journey.
All endnotes last accessed on 7 November 2023 and 9 November 2023.
