Prostate Cancer in the Philippines: Symptoms, Screening, Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and How Common Is It?
July 27, 2026
Prostate cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers among men, particularly those aged 50 years and older. While many cases grow slowly, others can spread beyond the prostate and become life-threatening if left untreated. The good news is that advances in screening, diagnosis, and treatment have significantly improved outcomes, especially when the disease is detected early.
Depending on the stage of the disease, treatment may include active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted medicines. For men with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer, modern androgen receptor pathway inhibitors such as Abiraterone and Enzalutamide have become important treatment options under the guidance of an oncologist or urologist.
This comprehensive guide explains how common prostate cancer is in the Philippines, its symptoms, risk factors, screening recommendations, diagnosis, and the treatment options available for Filipino patients.
Quick Facts About Prostate Cancer
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Age | Usually affects men over 50 years |
| Organ Affected | Prostate gland |
| Early Symptoms | Often none |
| Most Common Screening Test | PSA Blood Test |
| Can It Be Cured? | Yes, especially when detected early |
| Advanced Treatment | Hormone therapy, Abiraterone, Enzalutamide, chemotherapy |
| Risk Increases With | Age, family history, genetics |
What Is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder in men. It produces fluid that helps nourish and transport sperm. Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably.
Some prostate cancers remain confined to the prostate and grow slowly, while others are more aggressive and may spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. Early detection and individualized treatment planning can improve outcomes for many patients.
How Common Is Prostate Cancer in the Philippines?
Prostate cancer is one of the leading cancers affecting men in the Philippines. According to international cancer databases and Philippine health authorities, it consistently ranks among the top cancers diagnosed in Filipino males and remains a significant cause of cancer-related illness and death.
Several factors contribute to the growing number of cases in the country:
- An aging population
- Increased life expectancy
- Greater awareness of prostate health
- Improved access to PSA testing
- Better diagnostic technologies
- Lifestyle changes associated with urbanization
Because prostate cancer often develops slowly, many men may have the disease without noticing symptoms for years. As more Filipinos undergo routine health examinations and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, more cases are being identified at earlier stages.
Healthcare institutions throughout Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other regions now offer advanced diagnostic tools such as MRI imaging, prostate biopsy, and multidisciplinary cancer care, enabling earlier diagnosis and more personalized treatment.
Why Is Prostate Cancer Becoming More Common?
The increasing number of prostate cancer diagnoses does not necessarily mean the disease itself is becoming dramatically more aggressive. Instead, several factors have improved detection rates.
1. Longer Life Expectancy
Age is the strongest risk factor for prostate cancer. As Filipino men live longer, more individuals reach the age where prostate cancer becomes more common.
2. Improved Screening
Many hospitals and healthcare providers now recommend PSA testing for men with risk factors or symptoms, allowing cancers to be detected before they cause significant problems.
3. Better Diagnostic Technology
Multiparametric MRI, targeted biopsies, and modern pathology techniques help identify cancers more accurately than in previous decades.
4. Increased Public Awareness
Health campaigns encourage men to seek medical advice for urinary symptoms instead of ignoring them.
What Causes Prostate Cancer?
The exact cause of prostate cancer is not fully understood. Researchers believe it develops when genetic changes occur in prostate cells, causing them to grow and divide uncontrollably.
These abnormal cells may form a tumor and, in some cases, spread to nearby tissues or distant organs such as bones or lymph nodes.
Most prostate cancers are classified as adenocarcinomas, meaning they arise from the glandular cells of the prostate.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
Several factors can increase a man’s likelihood of developing prostate cancer.
Age
Risk rises significantly after age 50 and continues to increase with advancing age.
Family History
Men with a father, brother, or close relative diagnosed with prostate cancer have a higher risk, particularly if the diagnosis occurred at a younger age.
Genetic Mutations
Inherited mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and HOXB13 may increase prostate cancer risk.
Ethnicity
Risk varies among populations worldwide. While Filipino men generally have a lower incidence than some Western populations, prostate cancer remains a major health concern due to increasing life expectancy and improved detection.
Diet
Research suggests that diets high in processed meats, saturated fats, and low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to overall cancer risk, although no single food directly causes prostate cancer.
Obesity
Being overweight or obese has been associated with a higher likelihood of developing more aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
Smoking
Smoking has been linked to poorer outcomes and a greater risk of cancer progression in men already diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
One of the biggest challenges is that early-stage prostate cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms. Many men are diagnosed after a routine PSA blood test or physical examination.
As the disease progresses, symptoms may begin to appear.
Common Symptoms
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak urine stream
- Interrupted urine flow
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in the urine
- Blood in semen
- Pain during ejaculation
These symptoms can also occur with non-cancerous conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis, making proper medical evaluation essential.
Symptoms of Advanced Prostate Cancer
If prostate cancer spreads beyond the prostate gland, additional symptoms may develop, including:
- Persistent bone pain, particularly in the hips, pelvis, ribs, or spine
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing fatigue
- Weakness in the legs
- Swelling of the legs or feet
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of appetite
Bone pain is one of the most common symptoms of metastatic prostate cancer because the disease frequently spreads to the bones.
How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?
If screening tests or symptoms suggest prostate cancer, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine how far the cancer has spread. Accurate diagnosis is essential because treatment decisions depend on the cancer’s stage, grade, and your overall health.
1. PSA Blood Test
A PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test is often the first step in evaluating prostate health. While an elevated PSA level can indicate prostate cancer, it may also be caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, or other non-cancerous conditions. Your doctor will interpret PSA results alongside your age, medical history, and other clinical findings.
2. Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI)
If PSA levels or a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) raise concerns, an mpMRI may be recommended. This advanced imaging test helps identify suspicious areas within the prostate and guides targeted biopsies, improving diagnostic accuracy while reducing unnecessary procedures.
3. Prostate Biopsy
A prostate biopsy is the only way to confirm prostate cancer. During this procedure, small tissue samples are collected from the prostate and examined under a microscope by a pathologist to determine whether cancer cells are present.
4. Gleason Score and Grade Group
If cancer is detected, the biopsy report includes a Gleason Score and Grade Group, which indicate how aggressive the cancer appears.
| Grade Group | Gleason Score | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Grade Group 1 | 6 (3+3) | Low Risk |
| Grade Group 2 | 7 (3+4) | Favorable Intermediate |
| Grade Group 3 | 7 (4+3) | Unfavorable Intermediate |
| Grade Group 4 | 8 | High Risk |
| Grade Group 5 | 9–10 | Very High Risk |
Higher scores generally indicate faster-growing cancers that may require more intensive treatment.
Stages of Prostate Cancer
Doctors commonly use the TNM staging system to describe the extent of prostate cancer.
Stage I
- Small tumor confined to the prostate
- Usually grows slowly
- Excellent long-term outlook
Stage II
- Cancer remains within the prostate but may be larger or more aggressive
- Often curable with appropriate treatment
Stage III
- Cancer has spread beyond the prostate capsule to nearby tissues
- Requires more comprehensive treatment
Stage IV
- Cancer has spread to distant organs, bones, or lymph nodes
- Treatment focuses on controlling disease progression, relieving symptoms, and improving quality of life
Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer in the Philippines
Treatment depends on several factors, including:
- Cancer stage
- PSA level
- Grade Group
- Patient’s age
- Overall health
- Symptoms
- Personal preferences
Your healthcare team may include a urologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, radiologist, and oncology nurses.
1- Active Surveillance
Not every prostate cancer requires immediate treatment.
For men with low-risk, slow-growing prostate cancer, doctors may recommend active surveillance.
This involves:
- Regular PSA testing
- Repeat MRI scans when appropriate
- Follow-up biopsies if indicated
- Routine medical evaluations
The goal is to monitor the cancer closely while avoiding unnecessary side effects from treatment unless the disease shows signs of progression.
2- Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy)
Radical prostatectomy removes the entire prostate gland and, in some cases, nearby lymph nodes.
It is commonly recommended for localized prostate cancer that has not spread outside the prostate.
Potential side effects include:
- Urinary incontinence
- Erectile dysfunction
- Temporary recovery challenges
Many patients experience significant improvement with rehabilitation and follow-up care.
3- Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
Common approaches include:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
- Brachytherapy (internal radiation)
Radiation may be used:
- As the primary treatment
- After surgery
- Together with hormone therapy
- To relieve pain caused by bone metastases
4- Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy)
Prostate cancer cells often rely on male hormones called androgens, particularly testosterone, to grow.
Hormone therapy lowers androgen levels or blocks their effects, slowing cancer growth.
Treatment may include:
- LHRH agonists
- LHRH antagonists
- Surgical removal of the testicles (orchiectomy)
- Androgen receptor pathway inhibitors
Hormone therapy is commonly used for:
- Advanced prostate cancer
- Recurrent disease
- Metastatic prostate cancer
- High-risk localized cancer combined with radiation therapy
Abiraterone for Advanced Prostate Cancer
What Is Abiraterone?
Abiraterone acetate is an oral medicine used to treat certain forms of advanced prostate cancer. It works by blocking an enzyme called CYP17, which plays a key role in the body’s production of androgens. By reducing androgen levels, Abiraterone helps slow the growth of prostate cancer cells.
Abiraterone is typically prescribed together with low-dose corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to help reduce the risk of certain side effects. It should only be taken exactly as directed by an oncologist.
Who May Benefit from Abiraterone?
Depending on a physician’s assessment and current treatment guidelines, Abiraterone may be considered for eligible patients with:
- Metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC)
- Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)
- Certain high-risk advanced prostate cancers
Treatment decisions are individualized based on the patient’s overall condition, prior therapies, and disease characteristics.
Possible Side Effects
Like all cancer medicines, Abiraterone can cause side effects, including:
- High blood pressure
- Low potassium levels
- Fluid retention or swelling
- Liver function changes
- Fatigue
- Joint discomfort
Regular blood tests and follow-up appointments are important throughout treatment.
Enzalutamide for Advanced Prostate Cancer
What Is Enzalutamide?
Enzalutamide is another oral medicine used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. Unlike Abiraterone, it directly blocks androgen receptors on prostate cancer cells, preventing testosterone from stimulating cancer growth.
When Is Enzalutamide Used?
Enzalutamide may be prescribed for selected patients with:
- Non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC)
- Metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC)
- Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)
Your oncologist will determine whether Enzalutamide is an appropriate option based on your medical history and treatment goals.
Common Side Effects
Some patients may experience:
- Fatigue
- High blood pressure
- Hot flashes
- Dizziness
- Increased risk of falls
- Muscle weakness
Patients should report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.
Abiraterone vs. Enzalutamide
| Feature | Abiraterone | Enzalutamide |
|---|---|---|
| Administration | Oral tablet | Oral capsule/tablet |
| Main Action | Reduces androgen production | Blocks androgen receptor signaling |
| Often Given With | Prednisone or equivalent corticosteroid | Usually does not require routine corticosteroids |
| Common Use | Advanced prostate cancer | Advanced prostate cancer |
| Prescribed By | Medical oncologist or urologist | Medical oncologist or urologist |
Other Treatments That May Be Recommended
Depending on the stage and progression of prostate cancer, treatment plans may also include:
- Chemotherapy (such as docetaxel or cabazitaxel)
- Bone-strengthening medicines for bone metastases
- PARP inhibitors for selected patients with specific genetic mutations
- Radiopharmaceutical therapy for certain advanced cases
- Clinical trials when appropriate
Your oncology team will tailor treatment to your specific diagnosis and health needs.
Living with Prostate Cancer
Many men continue to lead active and fulfilling lives during and after treatment. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare team and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can support both physical and emotional well-being.
Helpful strategies include:
- Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Taking medicines exactly as prescribed
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Staying physically active as advised by your healthcare provider
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Seeking support from family, friends, or cancer support groups
Can Prostate Cancer Be Prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer. However, you may reduce your overall health risks by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a nutritious diet
- Avoiding smoking
- Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension
- Discussing screening with your doctor if you have risk factors or a family history
Conclusion
Prostate cancer remains a significant health concern for Filipino men, but advances in screening, diagnosis, and treatment continue to improve outcomes. Recognizing symptoms early, discussing PSA screening with your healthcare provider when appropriate, and receiving timely specialist evaluation can make a substantial difference in treatment success.
For men with advanced prostate cancer, therapies such as Abiraterone and Enzalutamide have expanded treatment options and may help slow disease progression in eligible patients. Because every case is unique, treatment decisions should always be made in consultation with a qualified oncologist or urologist.
If you have been prescribed specialty medicines for prostate cancer, trusted providers such as LetsMeds can help patients access quality generic and branded oncology medicines. Always use these medications under the supervision of your treating physician and follow the prescribed treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include frequent urination, difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, blood in the urine or semen, and pelvic discomfort.
Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among Filipino men, particularly those aged 50 years and older. Early detection and appropriate treatment have improved outcomes for many patients.
Yes. Many localized prostate cancers can be treated successfully, especially when diagnosed early. Even advanced prostate cancer can often be managed effectively with modern therapies that help control the disease and improve quality of life.
The PSA test is a blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen levels. It helps identify men who may need further evaluation but does not diagnose prostate cancer by itself.
Treatment may include hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and newer androgen receptor pathway inhibitors such as Abiraterone and Enzalutamide, depending on the patient’s diagnosis and treatment plan.
No. Both are targeted hormonal therapies that interfere with androgen signaling rather than directly destroying rapidly dividing cells like traditional chemotherapy.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO). Cancer Fact Sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) – Global Cancer Observatory (GCO). Philippines Cancer Statistics. https://gco.iarc.who.int/
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Prostate Cancer Treatment (PDQ®). https://www.cancer.gov/types/prostate
- National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Prostate Cancer. https://www.nccn.org/guidelines
- American Cancer Society (ACS). Prostate Cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/prostate-cancer.html
- European Association of Urology (EAU). EAU Guidelines on Prostate Cancer. https://uroweb.org/guidelines/prostate-cancer
- Department of Health (DOH), Philippines. National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA) and Cancer Programs. https://doh.gov.ph/
- PhilHealth. Cancer Benefit Packages and Health Coverage. https://www.philhealth.gov.ph/
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Prescribing Information for Abiraterone Acetate and Enzalutamide. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/