Prostate Conditions
Changes in urinary habits can raise questions about prostate health, particularly as men get older. Yet similar symptoms may arise from different conditions, and some prostate problems develop without noticeable symptoms.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis and prostate cancer affect the gland differently and do not necessarily require the same approach to care.
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that becomes more common with age.
Hormonal changes contribute to prostate growth, although the exact causes are not fully understood. Enlargement may narrow the urethra and affect urine flow.
Prostatitis involves inflammation of the prostate, sometimes due to bacterial infection.
Chronic prostatitis / chronic pelvic pain syndrome can also cause persistent pelvic discomfort without an identifiable bacterial infection.
Prostate cancer develops when abnormal cells grow within the gland.
Age, family history and certain inherited genetic changes can increase the risk. Some cancers progress slowly, although others may behave more aggressively.
Urinary changes can be difficult to interpret on your own. Speak with Dr Jonathan Teo about what you’ve noticed and whether an assessment may be appropriate.
Prostate conditions don’t always show themselves in the same way. Noticing how your urinary habits or comfort change over time can help you and your doctor decide whether further assessment is needed.
Early prostate cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms. Men with relevant risk factors, including a family history of prostate cancer, may benefit from discussing screening even without urinary complaints.
The choice of investigations depends on the clinical findings and suspected prostate condition.
Once the underlying condition has been identified, the findings can help determine whether treatment is needed and which approaches may be appropriate.
No. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not cancer and does not develop into prostate cancer. However, both conditions can occur in the same person. Having BPH does not rule out the possibility of prostate cancer.
Yes. Certain prostate conditions may be associated with painful ejaculation, erectile difficulties or changes in sexual function. Some prostate treatments can also affect ejaculation or erections. The effects depend on the underlying condition and the treatment involved.
Haemorrhoids and certain prostate conditions can cause discomfort in nearby areas. Haemorrhoids typically cause anal itching, bleeding or pain, whereas prostatitis may cause deeper pelvic or perineal discomfort. Haemorrhoids do not cause prostate enlargement, inflammation or cancer.
Meet Our Doctor
Medical Director & Consultant Urologist
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), FRCS-Urol (Glas), FAMS (Urol)
Dr Jonathan Teo evaluates suspected prostate conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis and prostate cancer. His approach takes into account how symptoms have developed and the findings from clinical investigations to determine whether further assessment is needed.
Dr Teo also participates in international urology conferences and professional exchanges, keeping him engaged with developments in urological care. These opportunities provide exposure to different clinical perspectives that inform his approach to prostate health.
Unexplained urinary changes or abnormal screening results may warrant further assessment. Consult Dr Jonathan Teo to understand what your findings may indicate.
3 Mount Elizabeth, #04-09
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
820 Thomson Road, #03-08
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A,
Singapore 574623
Operating Hours
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays